Sensory-based intervention for children with behavioral problems : a systematic review

Sensory-based intervention is a common approach used to address behavioral problems in children. Types of sensory-based intervention for children and details of the intervention effectiveness have not been systematically examined. This review examined the effectiveness and ideal types of sensory-based interventions for children with behavioral problems. Searching seven databases, a total of 132 studies were identified; 14 met the selection criteria and were reviewed. Seven of the studies were tactile-based interventions, four were proprioceptive-based intervention and three were vestibular-based interventions. Tactile-based interventions such as massage therapy were the most promising intervention in reducing behavioral problems. However, evidence concerning the effectiveness of sensory-based interventions remains unclear. More research is required for determining the appropriate intervention for children with behavioral problems.