Motor Skill Differences in Autism Spectrum Disorder: a Clinically Focused Review

Area of Science:

• Neurodevelopmental Disorders
• Motor Control and Learning
• Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) Research

Background:

• Motor skill deficits are prevalent in autism spectrum disorder (ASD), impacting a significant majority of individuals.
• These motor challenges are often underrecognized, with limited access to specialized clinical care.
• The association between motor differences and core ASD symptoms, as well as broader functioning, requires further elucidation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To synthesize recent clinical findings on the scope and significance of motor skill differences in ASD.
• To highlight the centrality of motor function in the developmental profile of autism spectrum disorder.
• To advocate for increased clinical attention to motor impairments in ASD.

Main Methods:

• Systematic review of recent, clinically relevant research on motor skills in ASD.
• Analysis of findings related to the prevalence, impact, and treatability of motor differences.
• Examination of evidence supporting the integration of motor assessments into ASD diagnostics and care.

Main Results:

• Motor challenges are pervasive, clinically significant, and affect up to 87% of the autistic population.
• Motor difficulties are linked to core autism symptoms and overall functioning, though specificity to ASD is still under investigation.
• Evidence indicates motor difficulties in ASD are quantifiable, treatable, and that interventions may positively impact social communication.

Conclusions:

• Motor differences are a critical, yet often overlooked, aspect of autism spectrum disorder.
• There is a need to formally recognize motor impairment as a clinical specifier within the ASD diagnostic framework.
• Routine screening, evaluation, and treatment planning for ASD should incorporate motor assessments.