How technology augments Dance Movement Therapy for Autism Spectrum Disorder: A systematic review for 2017–2022

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder, characterised by deficits of social communication and social interaction, along with restricted and repetitive patterns in behaviours, activities and interests. People diagnosed with ASD may need lifetime treatment for social inclusion and control of stereotypical behaviour, on which art therapy has played an important role. Dance Movement Therapy (DMT) has been applied with technology for interventions in social and motor rehabilitation. It has helped people with ASD to integrate in society and develop motor skills, though there are few studies that focus on their artistic expression through the dance and free movements. This review spans the interventions of DMT in technology for people with autism and other neurodevelopmental disorders, during the last six years, with a query on the technologies and application cases. The purpose of this study is to review more than 50 studies and discuss the most relevant technological aspects classified according to the application theme. Our general contribution is to give an overview of the current state of the art and provide guidelines for future research on DMT applications for people with ASD, orientated in the development of technologies that combine dance and visual arts for therapy uses. This research highlights how technology can enhance DMT by creating immersive and interactive environments that facilitate better engagement and expression for individuals with ASD. The study emphasises the importance of multidisciplinary approaches, involving artists, designers, and therapists, to develop richer, more inclusive therapeutic experiences. The findings suggest that technology does not need to be advanced or expensive to be effective; simplicity and user-friendliness are key to successful interventions.