The effect of perceptual-motor training on attention in the children with autism spectrum disorders

The present study attempted to investigate the effect of perceptual-motor training on attention in children with autism spectrum disorders. The participants (20 girls and 20 boys) were divided into experimental and control groups. They were selected from among 85 subjects after primary tests to be matched. The design of the study was quasi-experimental including an independent variable, a pretest and a posttest. After considering the research hypotheses using descriptive statistics and one-way Analysis of Covariance (ANCOVA), the results suggested a significant difference in posttest scores of experimental and control groups after independent variable being applied. The results also showed that perceptual-motor trainings for children with autism increase their attention because of the impact they have on increasing neurological and cognitive function.

► Our population in my study was children with autism spectrum disorders that could be treated in psycho-therapy clinics. ► We survey the effect of a training program in the level attention in children with autism spectrum disorders. ► We saw in increase in attention score children with autism spectrum disorders. ► Attention in children with autism spectrum disorders affected by perceptual-motor training. ► Perceptual-motor training is useful for treatment weakness attention in children with autism spectrum disorders.