Effectiveness of the FIT INDIA Movement Program
in Enhancing Self-Esteem Among Children with
Autism Spectrum Disorder: A Quasi-Experimental
Study
Sukanya G, A. Lourdu Mary
Academia and Society, Vol. 12, No. 2, 2026.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.6025/aas/2025/12/2/73-79
Link: https://www.dline.info/aas/fulltext/v12n2/aasv12n2_6.pdf
Abstract:
This quasi-experimental study evaluated the psychosocial impact of a structured
FIT INDIA Movement physical activity program on self-esteem in children
diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). Forty participants aged 7 to
12 years from three therapy centres in Tiruchirappalli, India, were randomly
assigned to an intervention group or a waitlist control group. The intervention
comprised 12 weeks of FIT INDIAâ€“based aerobic, balance, and coordination
exercises adapted for ASD. Self-esteem was measured pre- and post-intervention
using the Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale (RSES) with parent-assisted
administration protocols. Intervention fidelity was monitored through therapist
adherence checklists and attendance logs, and therapists experienced in ASD
led the sessions. Statistical analyses included paired t-tests and repeatedmeasures
ANOVA, revealing significant improvement in self-esteem for the
intervention group (p < .001, Cohenâ€™s d = 1.8). Findings underscore the potential
of national fitness initiatives to enhance psychosocial health in ASD populations,
and underscore the need for larger multicenter randomized trials incorporating
diverse measurement approaches.