Modified and Context-Focused Sports Intervention in Adolescents With Autism: Study Protocol

Adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) typically engage less in physical activities than their typically developing peers, influenced by intrinsic and extrinsic factors. Modified sports interventions, like Sports Stars Brazil, can improve motor skills and promote lifelong participation in sports by enhancing physical, social, and cognitive abilities. However, adolescents often face barriers to engaging in community sports and recreational activities after completing the program. PREP is an approach designed to address these barriers by modifying environments and empowering families. To date, no study has explored this combination in adolescents with ASD. Objective: This protocol assesses the effectiveness of combining Sports Stars Brazil with PREP to enhance participation and physical literacy in adolescents with ASD and explores participant and family perceptions. Method: A mixed-methods study with two phases: 1) a randomized controlled trial to investigate combined intervention's effects; and 2) evaluation of participant and family perceptions.