Western Kentucky University
The Effect of a Three Point Sensory Diet on Vocal and Verbal Behavior in a Non-Verbal Child on the Autism Spectrum
Institution
Western Kentucky University
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Mary Moore
Abstract
The study involved a single subject, a non-verbal child on the autism spectrum, in a clinical setting over a 22 week period. The subject was on a sensory diet that was administered before therapy sessions. The tactile, vestibular and proprioceptive systems were targeted with deep pressure touch, a suspension swing, and joint compression. The primary focus was on participation in therapy and language development with specific attention given to the enhancement of vocalizations and/or verbalizations. The child experienced the sensory diet for schedule of 1 week off, 2 weeks on, 1 week off, 3 weeks on, 1 week off and 2 weeks on the 10 weeks. For the next 12 weeks a 2 weeks off, 2 weeks on, 1week off, 4 weeks on, 2 weeks off, 1 week on schedule was followed. A student speech-language pathologist is assigned to plan, direct and work with the client for one hour twice a week for twelve weeks. A researcher observed to document data and oversee progress. From this study, positive efficacy of sensory integration therapy was seen in direct relation to an increase in vocalization/verbalization as well as being more engaged in the therapy session and in daily life.
The Effect of a Three Point Sensory Diet on Vocal and Verbal Behavior in a Non-Verbal Child on the Autism Spectrum
The study involved a single subject, a non-verbal child on the autism spectrum, in a clinical setting over a 22 week period. The subject was on a sensory diet that was administered before therapy sessions. The tactile, vestibular and proprioceptive systems were targeted with deep pressure touch, a suspension swing, and joint compression. The primary focus was on participation in therapy and language development with specific attention given to the enhancement of vocalizations and/or verbalizations. The child experienced the sensory diet for schedule of 1 week off, 2 weeks on, 1 week off, 3 weeks on, 1 week off and 2 weeks on the 10 weeks. For the next 12 weeks a 2 weeks off, 2 weeks on, 1week off, 4 weeks on, 2 weeks off, 1 week on schedule was followed. A student speech-language pathologist is assigned to plan, direct and work with the client for one hour twice a week for twelve weeks. A researcher observed to document data and oversee progress. From this study, positive efficacy of sensory integration therapy was seen in direct relation to an increase in vocalization/verbalization as well as being more engaged in the therapy session and in daily life.