The effect of a visual arts training program on reducing negative behaviors and developing selected skills in children with autism spectrum disorder

Abstract

This study examines the impact of a visual arts–based training program on reducing negative behaviors and enhancing selected skills among children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). An experimental pretest–posttest design was employed with a sample of 20 children: 10 with moderate autism (mean age = 10 years) and 10 with mild autism (mean age = 6.5 years). The intervention included structured visual arts activities such as drawing, coloring, and clay modeling, which served as nonverbal communication tools to support emotional expression, attention, and social interaction. The results indicate that the program significantly reduced maladaptive behaviors, including self-injury, biting, and stereotypical movements, across both groups. In addition, participants showed notable improvements in fine motor coordination and cognitive functioning. Interestingly, one child with mild autism demonstrated exceptional abilities in mathematics and visual art, suggesting characteristics consistent with Savant Syndrome, despite no prior formal training. The study concludes that visual arts–based interventions can be an effective educational and therapeutic approach for behavior modification and skill development in children with ASD.