Os efeitos da prática da natação na comunicação, no comportamento e na interação social em crianças com transtorno do espectro autismo: revisão de literatura

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction, in multiple contexts, and the presence of restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Studies show that swimming promotes motor, social, communicative, and behavioral improvements in neurotypical individuals. Despite this evidence, most well- established intervention programs for people diagnosed with autism do not incorporate swimming as a central element. Therefore, the present study aims to perform a literature review on the effects of swimming on communication, behavior, and social interaction in people with ASD. The MEDLINE database (PubMed), the Virtual Health Library, Scielo and CAPES periodicals were used as sources for articles on this topic. A total of 299 articles were identified, of which only 5 met the aforementioned inclusion criteria. The study of the impact of swimming on individuals diagnosed with autism is essential to support the science with evidence of its benefit and allow its incorporation into official recommendations for the treatment of the condition. In addition, once the role of Physical Education in ASD is clarified, this topic should be officially incorporated into the program of undergraduate courses. As final considerations, we highlight the importance of Physical Education professionals in the care of people diagnosed with autism and the benefits of regular swimming in addition to the improvement of motor skills.