Changes in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder after Theraplay Application

Area of Science:

• Developmental Psychology
• Clinical Psychology
• Pediatric Psychiatry

Background:

• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) presents challenges in social communication and interaction.
• Theraplay is an interactive play-based therapy that aims to improve relationships and social skills.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the impact of Theraplay on social communication and interaction in children diagnosed with ASD.
• To evaluate changes in social interaction, communication, and repetitive behaviors following Theraplay intervention.

Main Methods:

• A cohort of 20 children diagnosed with ASD participated in the study.
• The Marschak Interaction Method assessed parent-child interactions.
• The Korean version of the Social Communication Questionnaire (K-SCQ) measured ASD symptoms before and after Theraplay.

Main Results:

• Statistically significant improvements were observed in overall K-SCQ scores (z=-3.269, p=0.001).
• Specific enhancements were noted in social interaction (p=0.011), communication (p=0.025), and reduction of repetitive behaviors (p=0.039).

Conclusions:

• Theraplay demonstrates potential as an effective intervention for enhancing social communication in children with ASD.
• Further research is warranted to confirm the efficacy and long-term benefits of Theraplay for this population.