VISUAL SUPPORT REDUCES ANXIETY IN AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER AND ENHANCE THEIR VISUAL PERCEPTUAL SKILLS

Abstract

BACKGROUND
Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) have difficulties with
sensory processing that result in anxiety in certain situations. Aim of
this study is to determine the efficacy of visual supports in reduction
of anxiety levels and tolerance of transitions or switch over in
children with ASD.

STUDY DESIGN
Randomized controlled trial

METHODS
With a sample size of 57, comparison was made between two
groups i.e.; the experimental and the control group to see the
efficacy of the visual inputs in reducing anxiety in children with ASD
of age bracket 8-12 years old. Experimental group was given visual
aids with occupational therapy sessions, while control group was
only given conventional Occupational Therapy sessions. Pre and
post analysis of visual perceptual ages and the anxiety levels of
children were compared by anxiety scale for children-spectrum
disorder and motor-free visual perception test.

RESULT
Significant increase in the visual perceptual ages with reduction in
anxiety level was observed in experimental; no significant difference
was found in control group.

CONCLUSION
Reduction in the anxiety levels was achieved after 4 weeks of
intervention with improvement in the visual perceptual ages in the
experimental group.

KEYWORDS
Visual Aids, Autism, Sensory Functioning, Anxiety, Intervention,
Perceptual.