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A Familiarization Protocol Facilitates the Participation of Children with ASD in Electrophysiological Research
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A Pediatric Patient With Autism Spectrum Disorder and Comorbid Compulsive Behaviors Treated With Robot-Assisted
Vasiliki Aliki Nikopoulou1, Vasiliki Holeva1, Paraskevi Tatsiopoulou2
1Clinical Psychology Department, Papageorgiou General Hospital, Thessaloniki, GRC.
Cureus
|April 4, 2022
Summary
Robot-assisted relaxation training effectively helped a teen with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) manage disruptive behaviors and anxiety. This innovative approach promoted self-regulation skills when traditional therapies were declined.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Psychiatry
- Behavioral Science
Background:
- Autism spectrum disorders (ASDs) present challenges with comorbidities and psychotropic medication hesitancy.
- Comorbid symptoms in ASD can lead to significant functional decline.
- Alternative interventions are needed for individuals with ASD who decline traditional therapies.
Observation:
- A 13-year-old girl with autism disorder experienced a persistent perineal sensation leading to compulsive behaviors.
- The patient declined talk therapy but was amenable to robot-enhanced relaxation training.
- The intervention aimed to prevent escalation of irritation and promote self-regulation.
Findings:
- Parental reports indicated the patient acquired relaxation skills.
- The patient showed positive effects on emotional regulation.
- A decrease in the duration of disruptive behaviors was observed post-training.
Implications:
- Robot-assisted relaxation training may be a viable option for managing ASD-related behavioral disturbances.
- This method could be beneficial for comorbid anxiety in individuals with ASD.
- Further research into technology-assisted interventions for ASD is warranted.
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