The Therapeutic Effects of Different Art Forms on Children with Autism Spectrum Disorders: A Comparative Analysis of Music, Painting and Drama

Autism affects individuals' abilities to interact, communicate, learn, and behave. Children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) experience specific challenges in language, social interaction, and emotional expression. Recently, art therapy has gained attention as an effective intervention for children with ASD, with benefits documented across various populations. Complementary therapies, including art forms like music, painting, and drama, are increasingly popular, with approximately 74% of children with ASD using at least one such therapy. Each art form demonstrates unique therapeutic effects. This article examines existing research to compare the effectiveness of music, painting, and drama therapies in enhancing emotional expression, social interaction, and communication skills in children with ASD, evaluating their applicability and limitations. The study highlights the effects, applicability, and limitations of each art therapy form, providing insights for selecting appropriate therapeutic options for children with ASD.