MOTOR ASSESSMENTS APPLICABLE TO CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER (ASD): AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by deficits in social communication, restricted and repetitive behavior patterns, and often by significant motor alterations. It is estimated that approximately 50–88% of children with ASD present persistent motor deficits, which affect their motor profile and may compromise daily activities. Considering the relevance of motor assessment as a tool for diagnosis and intervention, this study aimed to identify motor assessment batteries applied to children with ASD, highlighting their applicability for professionals in the motor domain. An integrative review was conducted of articles published between 2015 and 2024 in the Lilacs, Medline, and SciELO databases, using descriptors in Portuguese, English, and Spanish. After applying the inclusion and exclusion criteria and screening the studies, eight articles were included. Ten motor assessment instruments were identified: three questionnaires that indirectly assessed motor performance and seven instruments directly applied to the individual through tests. The results indicate that, although motor assessments are essential for understanding the specificities of the development of children with ASD, many instruments were validated in neurotypical populations; moreover, some tests fail to capture nuances of atypical motor development and may exclude certain abilities. It is concluded that the proper use of these instruments contributes to more accurate diagnoses, individualized intervention planning, and developmental monitoring; however, the need for adaptations and the development of new methods that address the singularities of ASD is emphasized.