Please use this identifier to cite or link to this item: http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11861/4894
Title: A Chinese mind-body exercise improves self-control of children with autism: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dr. SIU Yat-fan, Nicolson 
Chan, S. Agnes 
Sze, L. Sophia 
Lau, M. Eliza 
Cheung, Mei-Chun 
Issue Date: 2013
Publisher: United States: Public Library of Science
Source: PLoS One, Jul 2013, vol. 8(7), e68184.
Journal: PLoS One 
Abstract: Self-control problems commonly manifest as temper outbursts and repetitive/rigid/impulsive behaviors, in children with autism spectrum disorders (ASD), which often contributes to learning difficulties and caregiver burden. The present study aims to compare the effect of a traditional Chinese Chan-based mind-body exercise, Nei Yang Gong, with that of the conventional Progressive Muscle Relaxation (PMR) technique in enhancing the self-control of children with ASD. Forty-six age- and IQ-matched ASD children were randomly assigned to receive group training in Nei Yang Gong (experimental group) or PMR (control group) twice per week for four weeks. The participants' self-control was measured by three neuropsychological tests and parental rating on standardized questionnaires, and the underlying neural mechanism was assessed by the participants' brain EEG activity during an inhibitory-control task before and after intervention. The results show that the experimental group demonstrated significantly greater improvement in self-control than the control group, which concurs with the parental reports of reduced autistic symptoms and increased control of temper and behaviors. In addition, the experimental group showed enhanced EEG activity in the anterior cingulate cortex, a region that mediates self-control, whereas the PMR group did not. The present findings support the potential application of Chinese Chan-based mind-body exercises as a form of neuropsychological rehabilitation for patients with self-control problems. Chinese Clinical Trial Registry; Registration No.: ChiCTR-TRC-12002561; URL: www.chictr.org.
Description: Open Access
Type: Peer Reviewed Journal Article
URI: http://hdl.handle.net/20.500.11861/4894
ISSN: 1932-6203
DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0068184
Appears in Collections:Counselling and Psychology - Publication

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