Sensory-Based Approaches in Intervention for Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder: Influences on Occupational Therapists' Recommendations and Perceived Benefits.
Am J Occup Ther, 2018/May/jun;72(3):7203205020p1-7203205020p8.
Thompson-Hodgetts S[1], Magill-Evans J[2]
Affiliations
PMID: 29689171DOI: 10.5014/ajot.2018.024729
Impact factor: 2.813
Abstract
objective: We investigated factors that influenced occupational therapists' beliefs about and use of sensory-based approaches for children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD).
method: Occupational therapists working with children with ASD (N = 211 from 16 countries) completed an online survey addressing their work experience, training, use of sensory-based approaches, and beliefs and perceptions about the effects of the approaches. Linear regression was used to determine predictors of use of and beliefs about sensory-based approaches.
results: Most respondents (98%) used sensory-based approaches for children with ASD and would recommend the approaches for 57% of the children they treated. Having a mentor who promoted sensory-based approaches and practicing outside North America and Australia predicted greater use and perceived effectiveness of these approaches. Less than 5 yr of occupational therapy experience predicted less use of the approaches.
conclusion: Respondents selectively used sensory-based approaches for children with ASD and were influenced by country of residence, clinical experience, and mentorship.
MeSH terms
Adolescent; Attitude of Health Personnel; Australia; Autism Spectrum Disorder; Canada; Child; Child, Preschool; Female; Humans; Infant; Male; Mentors; Occupational Therapists; Occupational Therapy; Perception; Practice Patterns, Physicians'; Sensation; Surveys and Questionnaires; Treatment Outcome; United States
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