Assessment of toileting difficulties in adults with intellectual disabilities: an examination using the profile of toileting issues (POTI)

Johnny L. Matson, Department of Psychology, Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, LA 70803, United States. johnmatson@aol.com
Daniene Neal
Julie A. Hess
Alison M. Kozlowski

Abstract

A lack of toileting skills is one of many impairments that individuals with intellectual and developmental disabilities experience. Unfortunately, little research has focused on problems in this area including assessment, function, and treatment. A newly developed checklist, the Profile of Toileting Issues (POTI), is being considered for use to screen for toileting issues in this population, and to identify potential functions to target in treatment. The purpose of the current study was to examine the reliability of the POTI. Internal consistency was sound (α = .83) and interrater reliability was significant. The implications of these findings are included.