Individual Differences in Responses to Rhythmic Entrainment in Music and Movement Intervention Among Individuals with Autism

Abstract

This study examines the influence of individual differences in sensory sensitivities and motor functions of four individuals with a spectrum of autistic traits on impacting their responses to the music and movement intervention. A multiple case study approach examines the participants’ individualised responses to rhythmic entrainment during the six-week music and movement intervention. Sensory sensitivities play a vital role in affecting the four participants entraining their body movements to the rhythmic cues, and inducing their auditory-motor mechanism. The findings indicate that each participant with autism has a distinctive response to the rhythmic cues, and this impacts the treatment outcomes of the music and movement intervention. The study recommends future researchers include individual differences in sensory and motor development as part of their investigation. These factors can directly influence the treatment outcomes of music and movement intervention from a neurological aspect.