Autism Spectrum Disorder: An Evaluation of Sports Therapy as an Effective Treatment Plan

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) describes a diverse range of conditions characterized by challenges with motor skills, social interactions, and verbal and nonverbal communication. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), about 1% of the world's population has ASD, approximately 75,000,000 people. The prevalence of ASD is not entirely surprising, as the disorder is most influenced by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. With the increasingly affected population comes a greater need for effective therapies, primarily based on cost-effective and engaging environments. Many therapists are currently exploring the possibility of sports therapy to directly influence the communication and motor skills of children with ASD. Sports therapy additionally presents the potential to reduce the risk of depression caused by ASD-induced stresses. Despite the benefits of sports therapy, it can be largely ineffective in some types of ASD, specifically low-functioning and classic ASD. This review article aims to present sports therapy as an effective treatment plan for ASD when used strategically to enhance the communication skills and motor skills necessary to foster self-confidence and reduce the risk of ASD-specific depression.