The Evaluation of a Family-Based Judo Program for Youth with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Objectives

Martial arts, such as judo, may improve health outcomes in youth with autism spectrum disorder (ASD); however, the inclusion of parents in this activity may offer additional benefits. The purpose of this study was to examine the feasibility and acceptability of a 15-week family judo program for autistic youth.

Methods

Nine children and their parents participated in the family class, and eight children participated in a child-only class as a comparison group. Judo sessions were held weekly for 45 min. Seven areas of feasibility (acceptability, demand, implementation, practicality, adaptation, expansion, preliminary efficacy) were assessed using attendance records, retention and recruitment rates, observation notes, and parent/instructor open-ended surveys. The Autism Behavior Inventory Short-Form (ABI-SF) was administered at baseline and post-judo to assess changes in ASD-related behaviors.

Results

The family class had a significantly higher attendance rate (13.22 ± .44 classes) compared to the child-only class (9.9 ± 2.5 classes, p = 0.007), with 100% of the family class attending at least 80% of the sessions, compared to 38% of the child-only class (p = 0.005). There was a significant improvement in social communication and self-regulation subscales from the ABI-SF post-judo in the family class, but no changes were observed in the child-only class. Parent open-ended survey responses indicated an observed increase in child physical activity and self-confidence post program in the family class.

Conclusions

The family judo class appeared both feasible and acceptable to participating families. Future studies should examine the physical and psychosocial benefits of a family program using larger samples.