A multicomponent exercise program for executive functions in children with ASD: a pilot multiple case study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.47197/retos.v83.119902Keywords:
Autism spectrum disorder, BRIEF-2, executive functions, children, physical exercise, multiple case study, number needed to treatAbstract
Introduction: There is scientific evidence indicating positive effects on executive functions in autism, but with certain limitations.
Objective: The present pilot multiple case study obtained preliminary estimates of the effects of a multicomponent physical exercise program on executive functions in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder Level 1.
Methodology: Twenty-one children (13 in the experimental group, 8 in the control group) between 8 and 12 years old participated. Executive functions were assessed using the Behavior Rating Inventory of Executive Function (BRIEF-2) in two naturalistic contexts: at home and at school. The Jacobson and Truax Reliable Change Index was used to identify clinical responders, along with the Number Needed to Treat (NNT).
Results: 45,5 % of participants in the experimental group showed clinically significant improvement in at least one setting, compared to no participants in the control group (NNT = 2.20, 95% CI 1.58 to ∞). Differentiated response patterns were identified according to the assessment context, with a greater effect on the school environment (d = -.53) than at home (d = -.45).
Conclusions: The results are consistent with the hypothesis that multicomponent physical exercise could be a viable intervention to improve executive functions in children with Level 1 ASD, although contextual generalization represents a more ambitious therapeutic goal. Definitive conclusions about efficacy await replication in adequately powered confirmatory trials.
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