The effect of perceptual-motor exercises on the behavioral problems of 8 to 12 years old boys with autism

Volume 1, Issue 1
Summer 2021
Pages 22-33

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 MSc. Department of Motor Behavior and Sport Psychology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran

2 Assistant Professor, Department of Motor Behavior and Sport Psychology, Faculty of Physical Education and Sport Sciences, Tehran University, Tehran, Iran

Abstract
Physical limitations and lack of necessary physical skills are one of the main causes of behavioral problems in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) as a neurodevelopmental disorder with a significant prevalence. Motor exercises can affect a child's physical, perceptual, and behavioral problems. The aim of the present study was to determine the effectiveness of selected perceptual-motor exercises on the behavioral problems of second level autistic boys aged 8 to 12 years. In a semi-experimental study, 16 boys with autism and an age range of 8 to 12 years were studied in one of the autism centers in Tehran. perceptual-motor exercises were performed for 6 weeks and 2 sessions in week. The behavioral problems questionnaire of Johannes was filled out by parents. Multivariate data analysis of covariance showed that there was a significant difference between the intervention group and control group in the post-experimental frequency of self-harm behaviors, and stereotypes at the level (p < 0/001). There was also a significant difference between the intervention and control groups in post-test severity of self-harm behaviors and stereotypes (p < 0/05). The results showed that perceptual-motor exercises were effective in reducing the frequency and severity of ASD children's behaviors and self-harm behaviors. But these exercises did not significantly affect the aggressive behaviors of boys with ASD. Based on the findings of the present study, perceptual-motor exercises can be effective in reducing behavioral problems of autistic boys. It is recommended to be used as an appropriate intervention.

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  • Receive Date 31 January 2021
  • Revise Date 31 May 2021
  • Accept Date 05 August 2021