The "Effects of Aquatic Therapy for Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder on Social Competence and Quality of Life: A Mixed Methods Study" is a research paper published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine. The study aimed to investigate the impact of aquatic therapy on social competence and quality of life in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD).
The research was led by Javier Güeita-Rodríguez and involved a team of researchers including Anna Ogonowska-Slodownik, Natalia Morgulec-Adamowicz, Mar Lledó Martín-Prades, Juan Nicolás Cuenca-Zaldívar, and Domingo Palacios-Ceña.
The study involved 24 children with ASD who participated in a 12-week aquatic therapy program. The therapy sessions, which were held twice a week for 60 minutes, included activities such as swimming, water aerobics, and playing games.
The research employed a mixed-methods design, combining qualitative and quantitative data. The study assessed social competence and quality of life through a standardized questionnaire, the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory (PedsQL), and the Social Skills Improvement System (SSIS).
The findings of the study showed significant improvements in social competence and quality of life in children with ASD after participating in the aquatic therapy program. The qualitative data also revealed positive changes in the children's behavior, communication, and social interaction skills.
The study concludes that aquatic therapy can be an effective intervention for improving social competence and quality of life in children with ASD. The research highlights the potential benefits of incorporating aquatic therapy into comprehensive treatment programs for children with ASD.
Authors
- Javier Güeita-Rodríguez
- Anna Ogonowska-Slodownik
- Natalia Morgulec-Adamowicz
- Mar Lledó Martín-Prades
- Juan Nicolás Cuenca-Zaldívar
- Domingo Palacios-Ceña