EVALUATION OF STEREOTYPED MOVEMENTS USING HIGH TECHNOLOGY DEVICES FOR EARLY DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT OF AUTISM

Abstract

Purpose: Delays and motor deficiencies in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) are extremely common and often announce the appearance of widespread atypical development. However, they are not properly emphasized in the diagnostic or assessment criteria for ASD. Thus, our paper provides a literature review on the motor evaluation of stereotyped movements of ASD individuals in relation to early diagnosis, treatment and possible interventions.

Methodology: Computerized searches (Pubmed) and manual searches were performed to identify the most relevant studies. We used the following keywords and search terms: autism spectrum disorder, autism, ASD, motor skills, motor disorders, stereotyped movement, assessment, evaluation, measurement, diagnosis, detection. Identified studies were screened by abstracts and conclusions for relevance. The criteria for the inclusion in the review were as follows: peer-reviewed studies; published after 2010; English-language. The following exclusion criteria were applied: published before 2010; participants diagnosed with other developmental disorders than ASD; studies focusing on participants with ASD that did not evaluate motor skills and development.

Findings: Early diagnosis of ASD is essential to develop effective interventions and mitigate the ASD main symptoms. Our results show that objective and quantitative measures of motor function should be considered as a priority for future research on the subject.

Unique contribution to theory, practice and policy: Specific motor and movement deviations such as stereotyped movements must be evaluated using high technology devices to promote the early diagnosis of children with ASD. Thus, motor deficits should be considered to effectively diagnose ASD. We highly recommend evaluating movement using quantitative methods to assess significant gaps in motor function of ASD individuals.