Sensory-Based Intervention for Children with Behavioral Problems: A Systematic Review

J Autism Dev Disord. 2015 Nov;45(11):3565-79. doi: 10.1007/s10803-015-2503-9.

Abstract

Sensory-based intervention is a common approach used to address behavioral problems in children. Types of sensory-based intervention for children and details of the intervention effectiveness have not been systematically examined. This review examined the effectiveness and ideal types of sensory-based interventions for children with behavioral problems. Searching seven databases, a total of 132 studies were identified; 14 met the selection criteria and were reviewed. Seven of the studies were tactile-based interventions, four were proprioceptive-based intervention and three were vestibular-based interventions. Tactile-based interventions such as massage therapy were the most promising intervention in reducing behavioral problems. However, evidence concerning the effectiveness of sensory-based interventions remains unclear. More research is required for determining the appropriate intervention for children with behavioral problems.

Keywords: Behavioral problems; Children; Proprioceptive; Sensory-based intervention; Tactile; Vestibular.

Publication types

  • Review
  • Systematic Review

MeSH terms

  • Child
  • Humans
  • Physical Therapy Modalities / psychology*
  • Problem Behavior / psychology*