What characterizes a motor skills disorder?

A motor skills disorder is primarily characterized by a deficit in coordination that is typically diagnosed during childhood. This condition affects a child's ability to perform tasks that require the use of fine or gross motor skills, which can impact their daily functioning, including physical activities, self-care, and school tasks like writing. The diagnosis often considers developmental milestones and may include challenges related to activities such as jumping, catching a ball, or using tools effectively.

In contrast, the other options focus on deficits in areas outside of motor skills. Language abilities pertain to communication and are not directly related to physical coordination. Cognitive impairment affecting social skills involves challenges in understanding and engaging in social interactions, which is unrelated to motor function. Emotional instability that leads to learning difficulties can impact behavior and academic success but does not specifically address coordination or motor skills. Thus, the defining feature of a motor skills disorder is indeed the deficit in coordination and the timing of its diagnosis in childhood.