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Symbolic Play among Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Scoping Review
Francisco González-Sala1, Irene Gómez-Marí2, Raúl Tárraga-Mínguez2
1Department of Developmental and Educational Psychology, University of Valencia, 46010 València, Spain.
Children (Basel, Switzerland)
|September 28, 2021
Summary
Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) exhibit significant symbolic play challenges compared to peers. These difficulties, especially in spontaneous play, can be an early indicator of ASD in toddlers.
Area of Science:
- Developmental Psychology
- Clinical Psychology
- Pediatrics
Background:
- Symbolic play is a crucial developmental milestone.
- It plays a significant role in the early diagnosis and assessment of autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
- Understanding symbolic play deficits is key to identifying developmental differences.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze symbolic play difficulties in children with ASD.
- To compare symbolic play in children with ASD, other neurodevelopmental disorders, and typical development.
- To investigate the potential of symbolic play as an early diagnostic marker for ASD.
Main Methods:
- A scoping review was conducted across major academic databases (Web of Science, Scopus, ERIC, PsycInfo).
- The review followed PRISMA extension guidelines for scoping reviews.
- Twenty-two papers were included in the final analysis.
Main Results:
- Children with ASD demonstrated greater symbolic play difficulties than children with other neurodevelopmental disorders and typically developing children, even when controlling for verbal age.
- These challenges were more pronounced during free or spontaneous play situations.
- Absence or deficiency in symbolic play emerged as a potential early indicator of ASD between 12-24 months of age.
Conclusions:
- Symbolic play deficits are a significant characteristic of autism spectrum disorder.
- Symbolic play assessment can aid in differentiating ASD from other developmental conditions.
- Early identification of symbolic play issues may facilitate timely intervention for ASD.
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