YOGA FOR CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF THE EVIDENCE AND POTENTIAL INTERFACES WITH COGNITIVE BEHAVIORAL THERAPIES

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by deficits in social communication and interaction and by restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior. Among the complementary interventions investigated for children and adolescents with ASD, yoga has received increasing attention. This study aimed to analyze the scientific evidence regarding the benefits of yoga for children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder and to explore possible interfaces between this practice and therapeutic processes emphasized in contemporary Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. This integrative literature review was conducted in accordance with the PRISMA 2020 recommendations. Searches were performed in the Virtual Health Library (VHL) and PubMed, including studies published between 2021 and 2026. After applying the eligibility criteria, eight articles, corresponding to seven independent investigations, comprised the final sample. The findings indicated benefits mainly in social, emotional, behavioral, and cognitive domains, as well as motor benefits when associated with other outcomes investigated. The interventions frequently included asanas (yoga postures), breathing exercises, relaxation, body awareness, and mindfulness, suggesting connections with processes emphasized in third-wave Cognitive Behavioral Therapies. Yoga may therefore represent a promising complementary intervention for children and adolescents with ASD, although studies with greater methodological rigor are needed to strengthen the available evidence.