Graduation Date
Summer 2024
Document Type
Thesis
Program
Master of Science degree with a major in Kinesiology, option Exercise Science
Committee Chair Name
Taylor Bloedon
Committee Chair Affiliation
HSU Faculty or Staff
Second Committee Member Name
Rock Braithwaite
Second Committee Member Affiliation
HSU Faculty or Staff
Third Committee Member Name
David Adams
Third Committee Member Affiliation
HSU Faculty or Staff
Keywords
Autism, Exercise, Neuroplasticity, Executive function, Emotional regulation, BDNF, Physical activity.
Subject Categories
Kinesiology
Abstract
Autism Spectrum Disorder is associated with cognitive challenges that can hinder Executive Function. Disruptions in ER tend to create the largest barriers to social interactions with peers and can lead to disengagement from social activities and increased isolation which can impede learning and increase sedentary behaviors. Exercise interventions have been extensively studied in the autism population. While research suggests a variety of movement-based practices are effective in supporting metabolism, motor skills, stereotypical behaviors, and executive function, the impacts on emotional regulation are less clear, as are the types of exercise interventions that have the greatest effects. This systematic review aimed to compile research reporting on the outcomes of exercise interventions on emotional regulation in youth with ASD ages 3-21 years from 2013 to 2024. A search of the literature was conducted within the Cal Poly Humboldt Library interface using SPORTDiscus, Psych Article, PsyhcInfo, PubMed/Medline, ScienceDirect, and CINAHL Plus with Full Text databases. Most interventions reported significant outcomes on ER. Analysis of type, intensity, time, frequency and duration of interventions on emotional regulation let to the rejection of our hypothesis that higher intensity interventions involving large muscle groups will have the greatest impact on emotional regulation due to additional release of BDNF from contracting skeletal muscle. We conclude that a wide range of exercise interventions, especially those emphasizing coordination and concentration, benefit emotional regulation in individuals with ASD. Given the variety of interventions and the array of benefits, physical activity can serve individual needs and increase quality of life.
Citation Style
APA
Recommended Citation
Dalmolen, Julie, "Movement-based interventions to support executive function and emotional regulation in autism through the potential molecular induction of neuroplasticity: a systematic review" (2024). Cal Poly Humboldt theses and projects. 783.
https://digitalcommons.humboldt.edu/etd/783