Abstract
This is a quantitative research study that explores the impact of art therapy on the identified
problem behavior(s) of children, ages four to six, who are diagnosed with autism spectrum
disorder. The relationship between art material and behavior is also observed. The participants
were provided through a convenient sample process and selected from an Applied Behavior
Analysis (ABA) therapeutic clinic in Chicago, IL. The study was anticipated to be a benefit for
both the participants and the art therapy profession, by providing an evidence-based study
supporting the hypothesis that there would be a decrease in identified problem behavior(s)
following the art therapy intervention. This study resulted in the development of a preliminary
framework for future studies on sensory-based art therapy interventions and their impact on the
behavior of children with autism spectrum disorder.
