Effect of exergames on motor performance and reaction time in a child with autism spectrum disorder

Authors

  • Elizângela Fernandes Ferreira Santos Diniz Universidade Federal de Viçosa
  • Osvaldo Costa Moreira Instituto de Ciências Biológicas e da Saúde, Universidade Federal de Viçosa
  • Claudia Eliza Patrocínio de Oliveira Universidade Federal de Viçosa
  • Eveline Torres Pereira Universidade Federal de Viçosa

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.6063/motricidade.27119

Keywords:

video game, motor skills, reaction time

Abstract

Difficulties in executive functions and motor performance in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) have been researched. This study aimed to verify the effect of exergames on motor performance and reaction time of a child (6 years old) with ASD. Eight weeks of games with Xbox Kinect were applied, with weekly meetings and duration of 35 to 40 minutes. Motor performance was assessed by the Motor Development Scale (EDM) and reaction time by the Simple Reaction and Choice RT/S1 test, available in the computerized Mental Test and Training System. The data obtained were analyzed according to the JT Method. The results indicated a reliable positive change in the general motor quotient (QMGpre= 87.5/QMGpost= 102.32) with a reliable change index (IMC) of 4.19, in the general motor age (IMGpre= 70/IMGpost= 88; IMC= 4.55) and in the motor areas balance (QMpre= 52.5/QMpost= 104.65; IMC= 2.47) and body schema (IMpre= 60/IMpost= 96; IMC= 2.63) after application of the exergames, but without significant changes in the reaction time scores (TRpre= 361/TRpost= 319; IMC= 1.26). The findings suggest that the use of exergames seems to reflect improvements in motor aspects but not in reaction time.

Published

2022-06-30

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