Longitudinal Multidisciplinary and Complementary Intervention in a Young Child with Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Three-Year Case Study of Communication, Behavioural, Adaptive and Cognitive Development
Author : Sridevi Godishala and Jagruth Lingala
Abstract :
Background: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterised by difficulties in social communication and restricted or repetitive behaviours. Early, individualised, and multidisciplinary intervention is important for improving developmental, communication, adaptive, and functional outcomes. Complementary approaches such as ear acupuncture and Electrohomeopathy have also been used, although evidence remains limited and variable.
Case Presentation: This case describes the three-year developmental trajectory of a male child who began intervention at 2 years and 6 months following identification of moderate autism-related difficulties on the Indian Scale for Assessment of Autism (ISAA) and moderate developmental delay on the Developmental Screening Test (DST). At baseline, he showed poor eye contact and social interaction, absent functional speech, limited communication of needs, inappropriate play, poor response to name, impaired eye-hand coordination, feeding difficulties, and dependence in daily activities. He subsequently received continuous occupational therapy, behaviour therapy, speech and communication therapy, parent counselling, and behavioural strategies, along with complementary Electrohomeopathy remedies and advanced ear acupuncture. Parents actively supported intervention at home.
Results: Over approximately three years, substantial functional improvements were reported in eye contact, social interaction, communication, self-care, adaptive functioning, classroom participation, and learning. The child progressed from absent functional speech to communicating needs and choices and demonstrated greater independence in daily activities. Teachers reportedly observed improved classroom participation, task completion, patience, and learning. At approximately five years of age, he was reported to recite multiplication tables up to 20, and a later psychological assessment reportedly yielded an IQ score of 101.
Conclusion: This case demonstrates notable developmental and functional changes following intensive, continuous, multidisciplinary and parent-supported intervention with complementary therapies. However, the concurrent use of multiple interventions and the single-case design prevent attribution of outcomes to any individual intervention. Controlled longitudinal studies are needed to evaluate the effectiveness and potential contribution of complementary interventions in ASD.
Keywords :
Autism Spectrum Disorder, early intervention, multidisciplinary intervention, parent-mediated intervention, communication, developmental delay, adaptive functioning, acupuncture, Electrohomeopathy, case study.
