Generative AI in art therapy for children with autism spectrum disorder: enhancing emotional expression and social cognition through multimodal interaction

Objectives This study proposes and evaluates a novel Generative Artificial Intelligence (GAI)-mediated art therapy framework for children with autism spectrum disorder that aims to improve their social cognition, emotional communication, and sensory adaptation, while addressing limitations of conventional approaches through tailored multimodal solutions.Methods Experts in many fields have been invited to participate in interviews and focus group discussions. Five focus group discussions have been conducted on the questions, with no new themes emerging. A theme analysis was performed by two writers.Results Thematic analysis revealed five primary themes with corresponding sub-themes: expression pathways, technological mediation, sensory heterogeneity, self-identity, and social cognition.Conclusions GAI revolutionizes autism treatment via dynamic co-creation and adaptive sensory modulation, enabling children to articulate feelings and participate socially.