Improving executive functions in two children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder through figure skating experiences: focusing on inhibiting repeti-tive behaviors

Abstract

<p>研究背景與目標：本文為首篇檢驗高功能自閉症類障礙疾患童之執行功能能否藉由花式滑冰（花滑）提升的實證研究。方法：本研究採單一個案實驗設計，共有兩位患童參加。由同一位具認證資格的花滑教練，依照滑冰協會所研發的訓練系統於冰上教學。過程中檢驗參與者之執行功能（以台灣繁體中文兒童執行功能量表施測）與重複行為（以修正版重複行為量表施測），並建立多重基準線。且訪談其母親以驗證社會效度。結果：本研究結果顯示兩位參與者的花滑技巧皆於六周共12次的花滑課程中有所進展。其執行功能中的抑制控制，以及重複行為，皆因著花滑技巧的進步而有所改善。這些正向效果更彰顯於兩人的日常生活中。結論：本研究結果支持花滑經驗可改善這兩名參與的高功能自閉症類障礙患童的抑制控制，並減少其重複行為。建議未來以大樣本的實驗，採隨機分組方式進一步驗證此效果。</p> <p> </p><p>Background and Purpose: This study is the first to examine whether the execu-tive functions (EFs) of children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorder (CWHFA) can be improved through figure skating (FS) experiences. Methods: In this single-case experimental study, a qualified FS coach trained two CWHFA by follow-ing the training system developed by the Ice Skating Institute. Multiple baselines of the two CWHFA were formed on several target indices, including EF subcomponents (Taiwanese Traditional-Chinese Childhood Executive Functioning Inventory) and repetition behaviors (Repetitive Behavior Scale-Revised). Social validation was also conducted via interviewing their mothers. Results: The results indicated that both of the CWHFA made progress on FS techniques during their 12 sessions of lessons in 6 weeks. The improved inhibitory control and repetitive behaviors were correlated with and might have probably been modiated by the FS experiences. The positive effects might have transferred to their daily lives. Conclusion: The results suggested that FS experiences helped the two CWHFA on their FS skills and bettered their inhibitory control as well as lowered their repetitive behaviors. Future randomised controlled trials further examining this effect are warranted.</p> <p> </p>