Using Martial Arts to Address Social and Behavioral Functioning in Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder

Autism Spectrum Disorders (ASD) are the second most common developmental disability in the United States, and prevalence is rising (Paul, 2011). Individuals with ASD commonly experience a variety of symptoms that impact social and behavioral functioning. Recently, several different martial arts have been explored as interventions that can lead to positive social and behavioral outcomes in children and adolescents with ASD.This brief literature review focused on the social and behavioral benefits of participation in martial arts programs for children and adolescents with ASD. Specific martial arts interventions, program structure, facilitation considerations, motivation for participation, and parent perceptions are all discussed. A knowledge translation plan is also presented to guide therapists in structuring evidence-based interventions.