Movement Function and Performance in Children With DCD or ASD

Difficulties executing tasks involving movement skills are a primary feature in Developmental Coordination Disorder (DCD) and a common, but frequently overlooked feature in Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). This review discusses what we know about early development and the potential neurobiological underpinnings of movement skills and performance in these populations and explores the behavioural features of movement functions and performance associated with DCD and ASD, mapped to the ICF framework. How recent technological advances in motion analysis and machine learning may inform our understanding of theseissues and the implications of current knowledge for research and clinical practice are also discussed. Research suggests that motor difficulties in individuals with DCD and ASD impact participation in activities of daily living, sports and social activities. Current evidence examining DCD and ASD is equivocal with respect to early development, neurobiological contributions, and movement function and behaviour across ICF domains of motor functions, motor performance and participation in movement activities. Findings are limited by small sample sizes as well as heterogeneity within the diagnostic presentations of both DCD and ASD. Technological advances provide novel opportunities to parse the similarities and differences in movement function and behaviour of individuals with these disorders. There are few studies directly contrasting the movement functions and behaviour of children with DCD to those with ASD that allow for direct comparison of similarities and differences, which control for confounding factors. Movement difficulties are universal in DCD and can impact social participation. Arguments have been put forward that support screening for motor difficulties in autistic individuals, but there is insufficient evidence to support the inclusion of movement difficulties within the diagnostic criteria for this disorder. Recognition of the influence of motor problems on engagement in activities demanding movement and social skills for those with DCD and ASD is important in order to ensure interventions optimise opportunities for social participation in physical activities.