Motor learning characterization in people with autism spectrum disorder: A systematic review

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder primarily characterized by deficits in social interaction, communication and implicit skill learning. Objective: To analyse the results of research on “motor learning” and the means used for measuring “autistic disorder”. Methods: A systematic literature search was done using Medline/ PubMed, Web of Science, BVS (virtual health library), and PsycINFO. We included articles that contained the keywords “autism” and “motor learning”. The variables considered were the methodological aspects; results presented, and the methodological quality of the studies. Results: A total of 42 studies were identified; 33 articles were excluded because they did not meet the inclusion criteria. Data were extracted from nine eligible studies and summarized. Conclusion: We concluded that although individuals with ASD showed performance difficulties in different memory and motor learning tasks, acquisition of skills still takes place in this population; however, this skill acquisition is related to heterogeneous events, occurring without the awareness of the individual.