Impact of task-related games on cognitive flexibility of low-functioning autism spectrum disorder children: A tool for improving quality of life in indian culture

Abstract

Introduction: People with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) find it difficult to fulfil the requirements of the changing environment. A lot of studies have indicated; autism spectrum disorder children lack cognitive flexibility. Objective: The present study focuses on improving cognitive flexibility through cognitive flexibility games i.e. Colour LED (light-emitting diode) board game, Geometry shape LED board game, Multidimensional LED board game, Music multidimensional LED board which initially started with minimum WM load, leads to maximum WM load on children with ASD. These games are based on four basic principles (i) providing cues (ii) positive reinforcement (iii) adaptable instructions (iv) increasing attention span through engagement. Methods: The study followed the time-series design. The study was conducted on 15 ASD children with the objectives to find (i) Do children with autism spectrum disorder (low functioning) show improvement in cognitive flexibility when exposed to task-related games? (ii) What elements of cognitive task-related games engage the children with ASD? Results: The study reported that task-based games had a significant impact on the improvement of cognitive flexibility of the ASD children; the four elements of cognitive flexibility task i.e. acceptance, variety of stimulus (LED bulb, Music), motivation and support system (providing cues when needed) plays a pivotal role in the engagement with the cognitive task-related games. Conclusion: The study recommends that task-related games can be used to develop cognitive flexibility in low-functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder Children. � IJCRR.