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Determinants and challenges in physical activity participation in families with children with high functioning autism

Nalan R Ayvazoglu1, Francis M Kozub1, Gretchen Butera2

  • 1School of Public Health, Indiana University, Bloomington, IN, United States.

Research in Developmental Disabilities
|September 15, 2015
PubMed

Insights

Physical activity (PA) in children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFASD) varied greatly. Parental understanding of PA needs and societal awareness are key factors influencing participation for children with HFASD.

Area of Science:

  • Pediatrics
  • Developmental Psychology
  • Behavioral Science

Background:

  • Children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFASD) often face challenges in participating in physical activities.
  • Understanding the factors influencing physical activity (PA) is crucial for promoting healthy lifestyles in this population.
  • Family involvement and environmental factors play a significant role in the PA engagement of children with HFASD.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To investigate the underlying factors affecting physical activity (PA) participation in children with high-functioning autism spectrum disorders (HFASD).
  • To explore the perspectives of parents regarding PA for their children with HFASD.
  • To identify barriers and facilitators to PA engagement within the family and community contexts for children with HFASD.

Main Methods:

  • A mixed-method research design was employed.
  • Six families with children diagnosed with HFASD (aged 4-13) participated in the study.
  • Data collection involved quantitative measurement of physical activity levels and qualitative interviews with parents.

Main Results:

  • Children with HFASD exhibited a wide range of moderate to vigorous physical activity (MVPA) levels (85-405 min/week).
  • Parents of children with HFASD reported very low levels of MVPA (6-53 min/week), indicating parental inactivity.
  • Qualitative data revealed key themes including understanding PA in HFASD, challenges of living with a child with HFASD, and awareness of autism spectrum disorders (ASD) in social settings.

Conclusions:

  • Parental understanding of PA needs for children with HFASD is a critical factor.
  • Social skills, bullying, fear of injury, and community/school awareness significantly impact PA participation.
  • Enhanced support and understanding are needed to promote physical activity for children with HFASD and their families.

Keywords:
FamiliesHigh-functioning autism spectrum disordersParentsPhysical activity

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