A LITERATURE REVIEW ON COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES IN AUTISM CHILDREN: A NURSING SCIENCE PHILOSOPHY

Abstract

ABSTRACTIntroductionAutism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can cause repetitive behavior, limited activity, and a lack of ability to communicate and socialize. The purpose of this literature review is to identify the effectiveness of Complementary mind-body-spirit therapies, manipulative and body-based therapies, and energy therapies in children with autism.MethodLiterature search method using ProQuest, PubMed, and Science Direct databases with include the keywords Complementary therapy in children with autism or Complementary therapy in children with autism. The search was limited to publication criteria in the 2018-2022 timeframe, full-text articles, and not review articles.ResultsOf the study showe that Complementary therapies are effective in improving development in children with autism consisting of mind-body-spirit therapies (music, yoga, Qur’an Murrotal Audio) effective in improving: communication and social skills also brain connectivity, the concentration, and attention span, and sleep quality, manipulative and body based therapies (physical activity, Tai Chi Chuan, massage) are effective in improving social interaction and communication skills, reducing stereotyped behavior, and preventing the risk of autism, energy therapies (reflexology, hypnotherapy, and healing touch) are effective in reducing the symptoms of autism and constipation and overcome hyperactive behavior.ConclusionComplementary mind-body-spirit therapies, manipulative and body-based therapies, and energy therapies are effective in improving the development of children with autism.