(PS3-49) Martial Arts as a Therapeutic Modality for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Interdisciplinary Approach to Improve Motor, Neurological, and Psychosocial Outcomes

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex neurodevelopmental disorder that poses unique challenges in behavioral communication and social interaction. With a prevalence of 1 in 36 children diagnosed in the United States, ASD often co-occurs with nutrition and feeding challenges, sensory integration difficulties, and a preference for sameness, complicating the intervention landscape for these children(Blaine et al., 2023).

Objective: This research proposes to leverage the structured yet adaptable nature of traditional martial arts—specifically Tai Chi Chuan, Qigong, and the Escrima stick fighting technique—to address the multifaceted needs of children with ASD, aiming to improve motor skills, neurological development, biological and metabolic health, and psychosocial well-being (Schäberle et al., 2018).

 

Methods: Guided by an interdisciplinary approach, integrating insights from health professionals and parents of autistic children(Sansi et al., 2021), this study employs a tailor-made martial arts curriculum designed to meet the unique sensory and communicative requirements of children with ASD. The curriculum draws from evidence such as Qigong demonstrating promising applicability in decreasing the severity of autism characteristics while improving self-control and sociability(Rodrigues et al., 2019), and Tai Chi Chuan improving balance and motion coordination through focused slow-motion workouts(Caldwellet al., 2023). Escrima's incorporation into dance and physiotherapy underscores the adaptability and potential for psychosocial development (Schäberle et al., 2018).

 Potential

Results: Anticipated outcomes include improved muscle tone, coordination, and endurance from martial arts training, reflecting physical benefits. Neurologically, the repetitive structure of the program may boost BDNF-mediated neuroplasticity, capitalizing on synaptic modulation(Hamdan et al., 2023). Biologically, Escrima's integration with dance movement could facilitate increased agency and body awareness (Schäberle et al., 2018). Psychosocial benefits are expected to arise from the inclusive, community-centric nature of martial arts, enhancing social cohesion and mental well-being.


Conclusion: This martial arts-based intervention exemplifies an innovative therapy for children with ASD, combining Tai Chi Chuan, Qigong, and Escrima into an interdisciplinary model that offers comprehensive support for their physical, neurological, and social development (Breitschuh et al., 2018).

*Full references removed for character limitations, examples given

References:

Blaine, R. E., Blaine, K. P., Cheng, K., Banuelos, C., & Leal, A. (2023). Priorities, barriers, and facilitators for nutrition-related care for autistic children: a qualitative study comparing interdisciplinary health professional and parent perspectives. Frontiers in Pediatrics, 11. https://doi.org/10.3389/fped.2023.1198177

Sansi, A., Nalbant, S., & Ozer, D. (2021). Effects of an Inclusive Physical Activity Program on the Motor Skills, Social Skills and Attitudes of Students with and without Autism Spectrum Disorder. Journal of Autism and Developmental Disorders, 51(7), 2254–2270. https://doi.org/10.1007/s10803-020-04693-z