Effects of the Global Integration Method (MIG) on functional outcomes in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A pilot study
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.62827/fb.v25i6.1034Keywords:
Children; autistic disorder; international classification of functioning; disability and health.Abstract
Introduction: Motor alterations are common in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and significantly impact communication as well as cognitive and functional skills. However, many intervention programs tend to neglect these motor impairments. The Global Integration Method (MIG) is an intensive and interdisciplinary program that addresses all levels of impairment associated with ASD. Objective: To investigate the effects of the MIG on functional outcomes in children with ASD. Methods: This pilot study involving 18 children (age = 6.53±2.58 years) used a single-group intervention design with pre- and post-test measures. The MIG intervention protocol lasted 3 months, 3 to 5 times per week, for 3-4 hours per day, and involved training functional tasks in a naturalistic environment associated with the use of a therapeutic vest. The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure (COPM), Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory - Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT), Behavioral Observation Protocol (PROC), and Test of Gross Motor Development-2 (TGMD-2) were used to assess the effects of the intervention. The Wilcoxon test was used to compare pre- and post-intervention means. Results: Fifteen participants completed the study. There was a significant improvement in the achievement of functional goals (COPM), communicative skills (PROC), and fundamental motor skills (TGMD-2) of the participants (p<0.05). Although the data indicated improvements in the domains of mobility and social/cognitive skills in the PEDI-CAT, the observed changes did not reach statistical significance. Conclusion: The MIG intervention program led to significant functional improvements in children with ASD.
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