Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) often face challenges with emotional regulation and attention, which can impact learning and social interaction. Vibroacoustic Therapy (VAT) — an approach that combines low-frequency sound vibrations with music — has recently emerged as a potential non-invasive tool to support neurodevelopmental outcomes. A 2025 pilot study published in Healthcare (Basel) explored whether VAT could help improve emotional regulation and attention in autistic children.
Intervention and Study Design
This mixed-methods pilot study involved 18 children with ASD between the ages of 9 and 12, identified for having attention difficulties by a school psychologist. Participants were assigned to a treatment group (n = 9) or a control group (n = 9). The treatment group received 10 vibroacoustic therapy sessions over six weeks in a public primary school in Pretoria, South Africa.
The researchers assessed attention using standardized tools (NEPSY-II and Joint Attention Test – JTAT), focusing on sustained, selective, alternating, and joint attention. Additionally, qualitative data were collected through observations and adapted semi-structured interviews that allowed children to express their experiences. Evaluations were performed at baseline, mid-treatment, post-treatment, and one week later.
What Did the Results Show?
The study found a statistically significant improvement in joint attention in the treatment group (χ² = 11.64, df = 3, p = 0.008), indicating that VAT had a measurable impact on a core attentional function related to social interaction.
Beyond quantitative results, qualitative data revealed positive emotional experiences among children receiving VAT — including feelings of calmness and enjoyment. Teachers also noted greater engagement and attention in class following the intervention.
Authors’ Conclusions
The authors concluded that vibroacoustic therapy is both feasible and well-tolerated in children with ASD. The combination of sound and vibration seems to offer benefits not only for attention but also for emotional regulation. While the study is limited by its small sample size and design constraints, the promising results support the need for larger, more controlled studies. VAT holds potential as a holistic, sensory-based therapy that may complement existing autism intervention programs.
Reference: Moore J, Farquharson K, Lotter C. “Grooving in My Body”: A Mixed-Methods Pilot Study of Vibroacoustic Therapy’s Effects on Emotion Regulation and Attention in Autistic Children. Healthcare (Basel). 2025;13(5):465. Published 2025 Feb 21. doi:10.3390/healthcare13050465