Meditation Practice Effects in Subjects with Autistic Spectrum Disorder

Abstract

Introduction: The objective of this study is to show the benefits of Meditation practice for young people with Autistic Spectrum Disorder. Method: The intervention study lasted for nine months, including two cycles, one of 8 weeks, and one of 4 months. Participants (n = 8; male = 7, female = 1) with average age of 21.5 years old (SD = 4.37). During both cycles, a weekly session of Meditation, which consisted of Mindfulness and Mantras exercises, was conducted in the center’s classroom, where the sample was following an administrative course. The participants were all invited to practice at home the different exercises when waking up and before sleeping for approximately 15 minutes. At the end of both cycles, we conducted semi-structured qualitative interviews with each participant, one of their closest family members, and their staff members from the center. Field notes were written at the end of each session. Results: Five out of the eight participants practiced at home, the practice became part of a habit for them. Those were the most susceptible to show results in stress and anxiety reduction, an increase in focuses, better emotional control, more pro-social behavior at home, and in the classroom. Discussion: We assume that family interest in the practice had an impact on the adherence of the participant to the program and consequence in better results. The participants who adopted our program as part of their daily life routine have shown results in a reduction of stress and anxiety and a better focus, prosocial improvements in the class environment, and better communication at home with family members.