A pilot randomized controlled clinical trial of dance practice for functionality in autistic children and adolescent with all levels of need support

Abstract

ObjectiveThis study addressed dance practice intertwining communication, functional independence and social behavior in autistic children and adolescents with all levels of need support. DesignA pilot randomized clinical trial with seventy-two participants between 8 and 15 years old were assessed for eligibility. SettingTheater rehearsal room and mental health clinic. InterventionsDance group (n = 17) or control group (n = 19), 24 sessions, once a week, lasting 40 min. Main outcome measuresThe Autism Behavior Checklist (ABC), Autistic Screening Questionnaire (ASQ), Childhood Autism Rate Scale (CARS), Functional Independence Measure (FIM), and World Health Organization Disability Assessment Schedule (WHODAS, version 2.0, to assess mothers’ functioning) were applied at two time points: baseline and end-point. ResultsDifferences between dance and control groups were significant at post-intervention for communication (mean difference: 1.31; 99.8%CI: 0.29, 2.32, p < 0.001, d = 0.93); social cognition (mean difference: 1.01; 99.8%CI: 0.13, 1.89, p < 0.001, d = 0.82); autistic behavior (mean difference: 11.82; 99.8%CI: 17.33, −6.31, p < 0.001, d = 1.45). ConclusionsIn this preliminary study, the findings provide ways of communication and social interaction through dance practice by autistic children and adolescents with all levels of support needs. Research on neurodiversity is needed to understand its feasibility and the lifestyle appropriation.