Malaysian occupational therapists’ perspectives on sensory-based intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder: A focus group discussion

• Published in: Journal of Occupational Therapy, Schools, and Early Intervention
• Main Author: Mohd Ali Piah H.; Harun D.; Wan Yunus F.; Mohd Rasdi H.F.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: Routledge 2024
• Online Access: https://www.scopus.com/inward/record.uri?eid=2-s2.0-85205719850&doi=10.1080%2f19411243.2024.2411059&partnerID=40&md5=903a78a253e204d7837971cd3806be93

This study explores Malaysian occupational therapists’ perspectives on implementing sensory-based intervention for children with autism spectrum disorder, addressing the high prevalence of sensory processing disorder in this population. Despite sensory-based intervention’s common usage globally, its implementation and associated challenges remain inadequately documented. The research employed a qualitative approach, conducting two focus group discussions with 14 experienced occupational therapists. Thematic analysis using ATLAS.ti software revealed eight themes: intervention approaches, implementation references, common activities, implementation structure, strategies, intervention types, evaluation methods, and challenges encountered. The findings emphasize the importance of personalized intervention strategies to meet the diverse sensory needs of children with autism spectrum disorder. The study highlights the necessity for developing comprehensive guidelines for effective sensory-based intervention implementation and underscores the need for individualized approaches. The study’s findings provide a contextual overview of sensory-based intervention in addressing sensory processing disorder among children with autism spectrum disorder. This research may inform the development of evidence-based guidelines and protocols for sensory interventions in occupational therapy practice, ultimately improving the quality of care for children with autism spectrum disorder. © 2024 Taylor & Francis Group, LLC.