Autism Spectrum Disorders

Research reports from R.L. Watling and co-authors provide new insights into autism

Autism Spectrum Disorders Library Library Home This article was published in Mental Health Weekly Digest, which you can subscribe to online.

"Clinical observations and caregiver reports of behavior and engagement also were explored to help guide future investigationsThis single-subject study used an ABAB design to compare the immediate effect of Ayres's sensory integration and a play scenario on the undesired behavior and task engagement of 4 children with ASDNo clear patterns of change in undesired behavior or task management emerged through objective measurement. Subjective data suggested that each child exhibited positive changes during and after interventionWhen effects are measured immediately after intervention, short-term Ayres's sensory integration does not-have a substantially different effect than a play scenario on undesired behavior or engagement of young children with ASD," wrote R.L. Watling and colleagues.

The researchers concluded: "However, subjective data suggest that Ayres's sensory integration may produce an effect that is evident during treatment sessions and in home environments."

Watling and colleagues published their study in American Journal of Occupational Therapy (Immediate effect of Ayres's sensory integration-based occupational therapy intervention on children with autism spectrum disorders. American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 2007;61(5):574-583).

Additional information can be obtained by contacting R.L. Watling, 30355 121st Pl SE, Auburn, WA 98092, USA.

The publisher of the American Journal of Occupational Therapy can be contacted at: American Occupational Therapy Association, Inc., 4720 Montgomery Lane, Bethesda, MD 20814-3425, USA.

Keywords: United States, Auburn, Autism, Developmental Disabilities, Neurology.

This article was prepared by Mental Health Weekly Digest editors from staff and other reports. Copyright 2007, Mental Health Weekly Digest via NewsRx.com.