Skip to main content

Suntay, Vanessa: Perceptions of Physical Activity Among Individuals with Autism

 

 

 

View video presentation
Title: Perceptions of Physical Activity Among Individuals with Autism

Name: Vanessa Suntay

Major: Exercise Science- Applied Kinesiology

School affiliation: School of Arts and Sciences

Programs: Aresty – Research or Conference Funding Recipient

Other contributors: Brandon Alderman and Michelle Grazioli

Abstract: It is well known that regular physical activity enhances physical and mental health (Strong et al., 2005). However, individuals often face a number of barriers to adopting and maintaining a physically active lifestyle. Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) refers to a range of neurodevelopmental disorders that include autism, Asperger’s syndrome, and pervasive developmental disorder not otherwise specified (PDD-NOS; Sturmey & Fitzer, 2007). Compared to individuals without ASD, individuals with ASD are more likely to have difficulties with balance, postural stability, gait, joint flexibility, and movement efficiency, which all may pose barriers to physical activity. Indeed, patients with ASD are less physically active than their non-ASD peers (Panahi et al., 2015). Despite the potential physical limitations, no studies have been conducted to examine perceived psychological barriers and correlates of physical activity in individuals with ASD. The Self-Determination Theory has been promising for explaining physical activity levels and motivation (Deci & Ryan, 2000). Therefore, the aim of this study is to determine how adults with ASD perceive and experience physical activity. Another aim is to examine how those perceptions align with the Self-Determination Theory. The Rutgers Database, Pubmed and Google Scholar were used to find research articles in order to assess physical activity levels and preferences for physical activity and exercise, along with perceived barriers, outcome expectations, and social support for physical activity. Establishing current physical activity habits along with thoughts and beliefs about physical activity among individuals with ASD is vital for planning individualized and evidence-based exercise interventions for persons with ASD. Future exercise interventions are currently being planned for patients from the Rutgers Center for Adult Autism Services.