DEVELOPMENTAL, PSYCHOLOGICAL, AND SOCIAL EFFECTS OF PHYSICAL ACTIVITY ON CHILDREN WITH AUTISM

Yener Aksoy, Mısra Gül Akyüz

Abstract


The current research explores the developmental, psychological, and social influence of physical activity on children who suffer from autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Autism is a developmental disability that involves the lack of social and communicational skills, repetition of behaviors and movements, as well as challenges with motor development. According to studies, people with autism engage in less physical activity which poses the threat of becoming overweight. Nonetheless, planned physical activities such as swimming, horse riding therapy, martial arts, and gymnastics positively influence motor development, decrease stereotypical behaviors, develop cognitive abilities and promote social interaction. Overall, physical activity is one of the key intervention methods that help develop individuals with autism.

Keywords


Autism, physical activity, motor development, social interaction

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References


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DOI: http://dx.doi.org/10.46827/ejpe.v13i6.6995

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