THERAPEUTIC APPROACHES IN CHILD PSYCHIATRY: EFFECTIVENESS OF BEHAVIORAL, OCCUPATIONAL AND PHARMACOLOGICAL INTERVENTIONS FOR AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD) AND ATTENTION DEFICIT HYPERACTIVITY DISORDER (ADHD)

Abstract

Introduction: Child psychiatry faces complex challenges in the diagnosis and treatment of neurodevelopmental disorders such as Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD). ASD affects communication, social interaction, and behavior, while ADHD is characterized by inattention, hyperactivity, and impulsivity. Both conditions require specific therapeutic approaches to improve the prognosis and quality of life of affected individuals. This article reviews the effectiveness of the main nonpharmacological and pharmacological interventions in the treatment of these conditions, highlighting the most recent methods and their clinical implications. Objective: The objectives are to evaluate the effectiveness of ABA and Sensory Integration for ASD, to analyze pharmacological and alternative treatments for ADHD, and to explore the importance of early detection and multimodal approaches. Methodology: This narrative review was conducted based on a comprehensive analysis of the scientific literature on interventions for ASD and ADHD. Data collection involved the selection of relevant studies from academic databases, including recent articles and meta-analyses. The review focused on occupational therapies, such as Sensory Integration (SI), and behavioral approaches, with an emphasis on Applied Behavior Analysis (ABA), as well as pharmacological treatments for ADHD. Inclusion criteria included studies that analyzed the efficacy and impacts of these interventions, with special attention to early detection and personalized treatments. Results: The analysis revealed that ABA-based interventions demonstrated significant positive effects on behavioral and adaptive skills of children with ASD, although the improvement in language skills and symptom severity was not as striking. Sensory Integration showed considerable benefits in motor and cognitive development, promoting greater independence in daily activities. For ADHD, pharmacological treatment, especially with methylphenidate and atomoxetine, showed efficacy in improving attention and reducing impulsivity, but with differentiated effects on executive functions, depending on the medication used. Furthermore, new approaches, such as the use of digital games for attention training, have shown promise in complementing traditional treatments. Therapeutic approaches for ASD and ADHD present a range of options that vary in efficacy and applicability. Behavioral and occupational therapies are essential for the development of social and cognitive skills, with ABA and Sensory Integration offering specific benefits for each disorder. Pharmacological interventions continue to play a crucial role in the management of ADHD, but personalization of treatment, considering the age and individual characteristics of patients, is essential to optimize results. The integration of alternative methods, such as digital games, can offer effective and less invasive alternatives. Early detection and the application of multimodal approaches are key strategies to improve the prognosis and quality of life of patients. Conclusion: This study highlights the importance of a personalized and multidisciplinary approach in child psychiatry to address the complexities of neurodevelopmental disorders.