Examining the effect of sensory integration therapy on food selectivity and sleep in children with autism spectrum disorder

Manici, G. (2024). Analysis of Effects Sensory Integration Therapy on Food Selectivity and Sleep in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Master's Thesis, Biruni University Graduate Education Institute, Istanbul. This study aims to examine the effect of sensory integration intervention on food selectivity and sleep problems in children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The study was conducted with children diagnosed with ASD between the ages of 4-7 at Ergoterapia Developmental Support and Counseling Center. A total of 60 children, 30 with ASD and 30 with typical development, were included in the study, meeting the inclusion criteria. Children were assessed twice, before and after the intervention. Sensory integration therapy was applied to the children included in the study in 40-minute sessions once a week for 12 weeks. Dunn Sensory Profile, Behavioral Pediatric Nutrition Assessment Scale, Children's Sleep Habits Scale, and Sociodemographic Information Form were used as data collection tools. These scales were used to evaluate children's sensory processing skills, feeding behaviors and sleep habits. Research results show that sensory integration therapy has positive effects on the children in the study group, on sensory processing skills, sleep habits and food selectivity (p <0.05). The findings of this study indicate that sensory integration therapy can be considered as a potential intervention method in children diagnosed with ASD and provides positive effects on sensory processing skills, sleep, and food selectivity.