MOTOR DEVELOPMENT AND MOTOR DEFICITS IN CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER

Abstract

Motor development represents an essential component of childhood development and is closely associated with functional independence, participation, and performance in everyday activities. Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) frequently present with difficulties in motor coordination, balance, postural control, muscle strength, and fine motor performance, which may affect their overall functional abilities. The aim of the present study was to investigate motor development and identify the predominant motor deficits in children with ASD aged 4 to 7 years. The study included 60 children diagnosed with ASD, who were divided into an experimental group (n = 30) and a control group (n = 30). A comprehensive assessment of motor functioning was performed using a battery of standardized motor tests evaluating static and dynamic balance, postural control, lower-limb explosive power, hand grip strength, fine motor coordination, spatial orientation, and motor speed. The assessment included the Pediatric Berg Balance Scale, standing long jump, hand dynamometry, fine motor performance assessed through a graphic dictation task, spatial orientation speed, and tapping. The findings demonstrated varying degrees of motor difficulties across several functional domains. The most pronounced impairments were observed in balance and postural control, muscle strength, fine motor coordination, and motor speed. Difficulties in maintaining stable body positions and performing coordinated movements were particularly evident, suggesting reduced efficiency of postural and motor control mechanisms. Reduced grip strength and lower performance in tasks requiring rapid and precise motor responses were also observed. These findings indicate that motor difficulties in children with ASD are multidimensional, involving both gross and fine motor functions. The identified deficits may negatively affect participation in age-appropriate activities and limit functional independence. The results emphasize the importance of comprehensive motor assessment as an essential component of the therapeutic evaluation of children with ASD. Identification of specific motor impairments can provide a basis for individualized intervention planning and support the integration of targeted physiotherapy and occupational therapy strategies aimed at improving balance, strength, coordination, motor planning, and functional performance.