Motor Coordination and Repetitive Behaviors in Autism: Exploring the Role of Attentional Shifting in Cognitive-Motor Training

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is characterized by deficits in social communication and the presence of restricted, repetitive behaviors, including motor stereotypies. One emerging area of research highlights the relationship between cognitive flexibility—particularly attentional shifting and these repetitive motor behaviors. This study investigates how motor skill performance, specifically balance and bilateral coordination, correlates with both social functioning and repetitive behaviors in children with autism. A total of ۵۰ boys aged ۵ to ۱۴ years from autism centers in Isfahan participated in standardized assessments of motor proficiency, social skills, and behavioral patterns. Findings revealed a significant positive relationship between motor skills and social competence, and a significant negative relationship between motor skills and repetitive behaviors. Regression analysis further showed that balance and bilateral coordination were strong predictors of both outcomes. These results suggest that motor deficits may be closely linked to cognitive inflexibility and repetitive behaviors, implying that structured cognitive-motor training programs targeting motor coordination could foster better attentional control and reduce stereotyped behaviors in children with autism.

کلیدواژه ها:

Autism Spectrum Disorder ، Attentional Shifting ، Repetitive Motor Behaviors ، Cognitive Flexibility ، Motor Skills