A LITERATURE REVIEW ON COMPLEMENTARY THERAPIES IN AUTISM CHILDREN: A NURSING SCIENCE PHILOSOPHY

ABSTRACT Introduction Autism is a neurodevelopmental disorder that can cause repetitive behavior, limited activity, and a lack of ability to communicate and socialize. The purpose of this literature review is to identify the effectiveness of Complementary mind-body-spirit therapies, manipulative and body-based therapies , and energy therapies in children with autism. Method Literature search method using ProQuest, PubMed , and Science Direct databases with include the keywords Complementary therapy in children with autism or Complementary therapy in children with autism . The search was limited to publication criteria in the 2018-2022 timeframe, full-text articles, and not review articles. Results Of the study showe that Complementary therapies are effective in improving development in children with autism consisting of mind-body-spirit therapies (music, yoga, Qur’an Murrotal Audio) effective in improving: communication and social skills also brain connectivity, the concentration, and attention span, and sleep quality, manipulative and body based therapies (physical activity, Tai Chi Chuan, massage ) are effective in improving social interaction and communication skills, reducing stereotyped behavior, and preventing the risk of autism, energy therapies (reflexology, hypnotherapy, and healing touch ) are effective in reducing the symptoms of autism and constipation and overcome hyperactive behavior. Conclusion Complementary mind-body-spirit therapies, manipulative and body-based therapies , and energy therapies are effective in improving the development of children with autism.