Gioia Cavalli1, Giovanni Galeoto1,2, Carla Sogos1, Anna Berardi1, Marco Tofani3. 1. Department of Human Neurosciences, Sapienza University of Rome, Rome, Italy. 2. Neuromed IRCCS, Pozzilli (Isernia), Italy. 3. Department of Neurorehabilitation and Robotics, Bambino Gesù Childrens Hospital, Rome, Italy.
Abstract
INTRODUCTION: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience difficulties in Executive Functions (EFs) performance. However, the efficacy of EF intervention needs to be further investigated. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of different EF interventions in children and adolescents with ASD. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out according to PRISMA guidelines. Relevant databases including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched up to November 2019. Papers included in the study have the following characteristics: randomized controlled trial or quasi-experimental design and published in English or Spanish. RESULTS: After the elimination of duplicates, 949 were screened. Among these, six were included in the systematic review. The main approaches for EF in ASD were computer-based interventions, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and assisted-animal therapy. Statistically significant results (p = 0.003) were found in using exergames. CONCLUSION: Different approaches can be used for improving EF intervention, with positive effects on working memory, behavior, and flexibility.
INTRODUCTION: Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) experience difficulties in Executive Functions (EFs) performance. However, the efficacy of EF intervention needs to be further investigated. OBJECTIVE: To evaluate the efficacy of different EF interventions in children and adolescents with ASD. METHODS: A systematic review and meta-analysis were carried out according to PRISMA guidelines. Relevant databases including PubMed, PsycINFO, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched up to November 2019. Papers included in the study have the following characteristics: randomized controlled trial or quasi-experimental design and published in English or Spanish. RESULTS: After the elimination of duplicates, 949 were screened. Among these, six were included in the systematic review. The main approaches for EF in ASD were computer-based interventions, cognitive-behavioral therapy, and assisted-animal therapy. Statistically significant results (p = 0.003) were found in using exergames. CONCLUSION: Different approaches can be used for improving EF intervention, with positive effects on working memory, behavior, and flexibility.
Entities:
Keywords:
Autism; children; executive function; rehabilitation; systematic review; training
Authors: Ester Mignolli; Alessia Scialpi; Donatella Valente; Anna Berardi; Giovanni Galeoto; Marco Tofani Journal: Int J Environ Res Public Health Date: 2022-08-16 Impact factor: 4.614