Sensory integration therapy and autistic spectrum disorder: A systematic review of literature

Abstract

The Autistic Spectrum Disorder (ASD) attracts the attention of several researchers due to some of its peculiar characteristics such as the inconsistent response to sensory stimuli. Ayres's assumptions postulate that Sensory Integration is the basis of the learning process and, hence, sensory strategies could be used with the intention of contributing to the pedagogical planning and learning process of the ASD student. This study aims to identify, through the Systematic Review of the Literature, the effectiveness of Ayres Sensory Integration ® , as well as the applicability of sensory strategies in the ASD's student school inclusion process. From the search in Capes Periodicals Portal, the Virtual Health Library (BVS), SciELO and Capes's Bank of Thesis and Dissertation, fourteen of the on-line available studies addressed the theme of interest. Sensory Integration Therapy presents good results in the intervention of individuals with ASD, however, no study describing the use of sensory strategies in the daily school life of these students could be found. It is necessary to carry out studies that both, measure the fidelity of Sensory Integration ® Ayres as well as verify the applicability of sensorial strategies in activities proposed in the classroom in order to support the school inclusion of the ASD student.