Effects of Cognitive Training Programs on Executive Function in Children and Adolescents With Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Systematic Review
Brain Sciences
Pasqualotto, A., Mazzoni, N., et al. (2021).
Brain Sciences, 11(10), 1280.
This systematic review investigates the effects of cognitive training programs on executive function for children and young adults on the autism spectrum.
Municipality of Rovereto and Fondazione Caritro, Italy
From September 2020 to April 2021
Randomized-controlled trials, quasi-experimental studies, and single-group studies were all included. Systematic reviews and meta-analyses were included if they were included in at least one database, reported inclusion criteria, conducted quality or risk of bias assessment, and provided a list and synthesis of included studies.
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<div>Non-computerized executive function training increased cognitive flexibility, problem-solving, emotion regulation, and social skills in children on the autism spectrum with executive function deficits. Cognitive remediation therapy improved working memory and both verbal and semantic fluency, with far-transfer to academic performance. Greater improvements were seen in home and school environments.<br><br>Limitations of this review included lack of methodological rigor of the included studies or replication of their effects. Heterogeneity of the training protocols and outcome measures prevented firm conclusions regarding treatment efficacy.</div>
<div>Computerized cognitive training programs targeting executive function deficits in children on the autism spectrum showed an overall significant improvement in performance on tasks such as divided and sustained attention, visual and verbal working memory, and inhibitory control.<br><br>Limitations of this review included lack of methodological rigor of the included studies or replication of their effects. Heterogeneity of the training protocols and outcome measures prevented firm conclusions regarding treatment efficacy.</div>
