Stoycho D. Kodzhabashev
Therapist at the "Screen Children" Project, BG-6000 Stara Zagora, stzagora@screenchildren.com
For citation: Kodzhabashev, S.D. (2025) From Automatism to Awareness – The Journey of a Child with Autism and Their Parents Toward Normalcy: A Case Report. Nootism 1(1), 101, ISSN 3033-1765
*This paper was presented by Stoycho Kodzhabashev at the Second Science Conference "Screen Children" on November 23, 2024, in Sofia, Bulgaria.
Abstract
Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a neurological and developmental condition that affects an individual’s ability to interact, communicate, learn, and regulate behavior. While ASD can be diagnosed at any age, it is classified as a developmental disorder since symptoms typically emerge within the first two years of life.
This case study presents the therapeutic progress of a five-year-old child diagnosed with autism, treated using modified biofeedback training followed by weekly non-device-based therapy sessions. The intervention began with parental training, focusing on autonomic nervous system regulation to help parents manage their own emotional responses and indirectly influence their child's behavior. The second phase involved direct work with the child, utilizing various techniques to establish a connection between bodily signals and screen-based feedback—a process that proved particularly challenging due to the child's uncontrolled behavior and sensory processing difficulties.
Over 25 biofeedback sessions, incorporating sensory stimulation and sensorimotor integration, the child exhibited significant behavioral improvements, including reduced symptoms, enhanced emotional regulation, and better social engagement. The progress remained stable, with parents reporting lasting positive changes four months post-therapy, including improved crisis management, increased responsiveness, and greater adaptability to social interactions. Additionally, parental confidence in guiding and influencing their child's behavior improved substantially.
This case highlights the effectiveness of biofeedback, sensory stimulation, and sensorimotor integration as promising therapeutic approaches for children with autism spectrum disorder, emphasizing the importance of family involvement in the therapeutic process.
Keywords: Autism, Automatism, Tantrum, Awareness, Biofeedback, Sensory Stimulation, Sensorimotor Integration