Date of Award
Spring 2020
Degree Name
Bachelor of Arts
Department
Psychology; College of Arts & Sciences
First Advisor
Adam Levy
Abstract
Many individuals with Autism (ASD), Anxiety, and other disabilities seek out tactile input, in the form of Deep Pressure Therapy, to calm themselves during stressful situations. First developed in Eastern culture and massage, Deep Pressure Therapy evolved into a mainstream technique used by various populations, including neurotypicals. Weighted blankets, compression vests, and other materials are useful in treatment but have their limitations as well. These garments and tools provide tactile input that positively impacts the individuals' biological functions, self-reported anxiety, and other essential factors. Other sensory treatments like exercise and swaddling provide similar effects but not specific to the deep pressure therapy practice. Lack of research and individual variation are significant limitations of DPT due to the lack of sound, consistent analysis. This literary review considers the barriers to current research studies on Deep Pressure Therapy; however, through over 20 studies, various correlations indicate the effectiveness of this new therapy technique.
Recommended Citation
Faulcon, Kaitlin, "The Effect of Deep Pressure Therapy on the Health of Individuals With Developmental Disorders" (2020). Capstone Showcase. 39.
https://scholarworks.arcadia.edu/showcase/2020/psychology/39
The Effect of Deep Pressure Therapy on the Health of Individuals With Developmental Disorders
Many individuals with Autism (ASD), Anxiety, and other disabilities seek out tactile input, in the form of Deep Pressure Therapy, to calm themselves during stressful situations. First developed in Eastern culture and massage, Deep Pressure Therapy evolved into a mainstream technique used by various populations, including neurotypicals. Weighted blankets, compression vests, and other materials are useful in treatment but have their limitations as well. These garments and tools provide tactile input that positively impacts the individuals' biological functions, self-reported anxiety, and other essential factors. Other sensory treatments like exercise and swaddling provide similar effects but not specific to the deep pressure therapy practice. Lack of research and individual variation are significant limitations of DPT due to the lack of sound, consistent analysis. This literary review considers the barriers to current research studies on Deep Pressure Therapy; however, through over 20 studies, various correlations indicate the effectiveness of this new therapy technique.