The Effects of Exercise in Anxiety in Children With ASD

The Effects of a School Based Exercise Programme on Behaviour and Anxiety in Children With ASD

This study will examine the effects of a school based exercise programme on anxiety and behaviour levels in children with autism.

This study will examine the effects of a school based exercise programme on anxiety and behaviour levels in children with autism. Local special autism schools and primary and secondary schools with specialised classes for children with autism will be approached to participate in the project. The age profile of the children will be 4-18 yrs of age and they will have mild-severe levels of autism. The exercise programme will delivered 3 times per week in the schools over periods of 8-16 weeks dependent on the severity of autism within the children.

Questionnaires will be given to the parents and teachers of the children at the beginning and at the end of the programme to assess changes in anxiety levels and behaviour as a result of the exercise programme.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of autism spectrum disorder

Exclusion Criteria:

• Any medical condition which excludes the child from partaking in exercise