자폐스펙트럼장애 아동을 위한 운동 중재의 사회적 기술효과 메타분석 = A Meta-Analysis of the Effects of Physical Activity Interventions on Social Skills in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

다국어 초록 (Multilingual Abstract)

Purpose The aim of this study is to conduct a comprehensive meta-analysis of physical activity interventions studies for improving social skills in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD). This study aimed to analyze potential barriers and limitations to the most effective physical activity interventions for children with ASD, and to establish a foundation for the development of physical activity intervention programs for children with ASD. Methods Published papers in Korean academic journals that studied on physical activity interventions for children with ASD between 2000 and 2024 were included. Cochrane Group's RoB 2.0 was used to assess the quality of the studies and the meta-analysis was conducted using R 4.4.1 program. Results A total of six papers were selected for the analysis, and the physical activity interventions had a large effect size on the social skills of children with ASD. To assess factors influencing social skill development, a meta-regression was performed on study design, average participant age, and group size. The analysis revealed no significant differences between RCTs and quasi-experimental studies, and participant age was not statistically significant. In contrast, group size showed a meaningful effect. Conclusion Physical activity interventions have a positive effect on social skills in children with ASD. To be effective in improving social skills in children with ASD, it is necessary to conduct physical activity interventions in groups of 10 or more. Additionally, further research on physical activity interventions for RCT is needed.