Technology-Mediated Interventions for Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

According to the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5), Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a complex neurological and developmental condition characterized by impairments in social interaction and communication. Despite significant advancements in the research field, no pharmaceutical medication has been designed for ASD treatment. Therefore, ASD treatment relies mainly on therapeutic intervention. Interactive technologies have emerged as valuable therapy augmentation tools. This research focuses on interactive technologies developed for ASD therapeutic intervention. The study introduces a conceptual framework for understanding the full spectrum of technologies involved in the ASD context. The employed methodology encompasses expert opinions and entails a cross-sectional study that included 59 participants with significant experience in interacting with individuals diagnosed with ASD in various real-life settings, including therapists, teachers, and parents of children with ASD. The research findings revealed a broad spectrum of technologies involved in ASD interventions, including applications, devices, and robots. The results bring a new perspective on the interactive technologies used in the therapy and diagnosis of ASD and highlight their important characteristics that can serve as a standard in the development of future technological solutions.