Facilitating Attachment In Children With Autism Through Sensory Based Relational Art Therapy Approach S Brata

The purpose of this research is firstly, to bring attention to the psycho-emotional wellbeing of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) within the context of sensory integration dysfunction (SID) and impaired attachment. Secondly, it is to establish art therapy as an efficacious treatment that can address the psycho-emotional needs of children on the spectrum. To this end, an explicit framework called sensory-based relational art therapy approach (S-BRATA) is presented for therapists, that focuses on healing impaired attachment in children with ASD and comorbid SID. A three-article dissertation was chosen to disseminate the research for broader reach, targeted impact and concise delivery of content. The first article which is a viewpoint makes a case for art therapy as an effectual intervention for children on the spectrum which, due to its’ broad scope and applicability, can address the core deficits of ASD such as: issues with sensory regulation, psycho-motor regulation, communication and expression. The second article specifically illuminates the relationship between SID and impaired attachment in children with ASD highlighting the emotional and psychological ramifications of disrupted attachment. The impact of SID on impaired attachment in children with ASD is explicated and supported through current discourse on ASD, SID and attachment theory. Furthermore, relevant art therapy literature is reviewed within the context of sensory regulation and relational artmaking positioning it as a suitable treatment to address impaired attachment in children with ASD and comorbid SID concurrently. The third article presents a clinically tested framework or S-BRATA, generated through grounded theory methodology, that addresses SID and impaired attachment in children with autism. S-BRATA is based on findings from three case studies of children with autism and comorbid SID and is informed by research on attachment theory, SID, and art therapy within the context of neuroscience. Finally, therapists are recommended to use S-BRATA as a preliminary structure for addressing sensory issues and facilitating attachment in children with autism. Further research and development of S-BRATA is suggested with possible cross-disciplinary collaboration. Keywords: autism spectrum disorder, art therapy, attachment, sensory integration dysfunction, neuroscience