The performance between the dominant hand (DH) and non-dominant hand (NDH) is distinct, with the DH typically showing better dexterity, strength, and coordination in manual tasks as it is more frequently used for daily activities. The manual performance of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may vary, as this population may exhibit motor deficits.

To compare the manual performance of the dominant and non-dominant hands in children and adolescents with ASD.

A cross-sectional and quantitative study, which was submitted to and approved by the Research Ethics Committee. The study included 14 children and adolescents aged between 6 and 15 years, of both sexes, diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder, classified as support level I or II, who have normal or corrected vision and do not have movement restrictions in the upper limbs. The Global Lateral Dominance Inventory (IPLAG) was used to assess laterality, and the Block Design Test was conducted with the children and adolescents to evaluate manual performance.

The data were presented as mean and standard deviation. Normality was initially observed through the Shapiro-Wilk test. To compare the practice conditions with the dominant and non-dominant hands, paired t-tests were conducted for both the number of correct responses and the number of errors. The data were organized using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS) version 20.0, with a significance level set at p < 0.05. Fourteen children were evaluated with a mean age of 7.35, consisting of 13 males and 1 female. Of these, only 1 was left-handed. The comparison between the number of correct responses with the right hand (M = 34.21 ± 6.22) and the left hand (M = 33.86 ± 8.37) showed no significant difference [t(13) = 0.24, p = 0.81, r = 0.01]. Regarding the number of errors, there was no significant difference between the performance of the right hand (M = 1.21 ± 1.61) and the left hand (M = 2.89 ± 3.77) [t(13) = -1.84, p = 0.09, r = 0.14].

In light of the above, it was noted that there was no difference in manual performance between the right and left hands of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder; however, further studies with this population are necessary due to the small sample size of the present study.

This study addresses the manual performance of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Given that this population may exhibit motor performance deficits, which can compromise fine motor coordination, it is essential to study and delve deeper into this topic to better understand and establish goals for effective treatment.