Application of White Noise in Minors with Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Abstract

Individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often experience sensory hyperreactivities that interfere with daily life activities. White noise, characterized by its uniformity and its ability to mask environmental sounds, may serve as a tool to improve sensory and emotional regulation in children with ASD. The primary objective was to evaluate the response to white noise in improving self-regulation in minors with ASD. As a secondary objective, the study assessed whether there were differences in the response to white noise between patients with ASD and those with ASD and Intellectual Disability (ID). This study was conducted in the Child and Adolescent Psychiatry and Psychology Department of Hospital Clínic of Barcelona. A total of 54 patients, aged between 7 and 17 years, were included. The patients were divided into two groups: Group 1 consisted of patients diagnosed with ASD (n = 21), and Group 2 included patients diagnosed with ASD and ID (n = 33). White noise was offered to the patients, and their response was evaluated before and after the exposure using the Conners Teacher Rating Scale. Overall, the response to white noise in the sample was positive, with a significant difference in scores on the Conners Teacher Rating Scale (p < 0.001). When dividing the sample into the ASD group and the ASD + ID group, it was observed that the ASD + ID group tolerated white noise better and had a longer exposure time, although both groups showed improved scores on the Conners Teacher Rating Scale. White noise may be a valuable tool to enhance well-being in individuals with ASD, reduce motor restlessness, and increase attention span and emotional stability. However, its effectiveness varies across individuals. It is recommended to tailor its use to individual needs and to extend future research by incorporating physiological measures and larger sample sizes.