What does the term 'attending behavior' refer to in therapeutic recreation assessments?

The term 'attending behavior' in therapeutic recreation assessments primarily refers to the ability to focus on activities. This concept encompasses how well an individual can direct their attention toward tasks, engage with the environment, and participate in recreational activities without distractions. Focusing on activities is crucial for effective participation in therapeutic recreation, as it allows individuals to fully engage and derive benefits from the experience.

While other aspects like emotional expression, physical coordination, and social conversation skills are important in a therapeutic context, they do not specifically define attending behavior. Attending behavior is more aligned with attention span and the capacity to engage with recreational tasks, making it a foundational skill that supports participation and engagement in therapeutic settings.