Os efeitos do exercício físico na comunicação, no comportamento e na interação social em pessoas com transtorno do espectro do autismo : revisão de literatura

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a condition characterized by persistent deficits in social communication and social interaction across multiple contexts, in the context of restricted, repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Studies show that physical exercises promote motor, social, communicative, and behavioral improvements in neurotypical individuals. Despite of that evidence, most of the several well-established intervention programs for people with the diagnosis autism do not incorporate physical exercise as a central element. Therefore, this present study aimed to conduct a literature review on the effects of physical exercise on communication, behavior, and social interaction in people with ASD. MEDLINE (PubMed) database and Biblioteca Virtual em Saúde (the Virtual Health Library) were used as a source of articles in this topic. 54 articles have been identified, of which only 8 meet the referred inclusion criteria. Because of the lack of published validated protocols, professionals develop a training program based on their practice without an evidence-based process to validate and support its use. The study of the impact of physical exercise programs on individuals with the diagnosis of autism is essential to support science with evidence of its benefit and allow its incorporation to the official recommendations for the treatment for the condition. Also, once the role of Physical Education in ASD is clarified, this topic should be officially incorporated to the program of graduated courses. As final considerations, we highlight the importance of Physical Education professionals in the care of people with the diagnosis of autism and the benefits of regular exercise beyond motor skills improvement. In addition, this study can be a reference for future relevant research in the area.