Benefícios do judô para crianças e adolescentes com transtorno do espectro autista

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition characterized by a combination of deficits in social communication (socialization and verbal and non-verbal communication) and behavioral patterns (restricted interests and repetitive movements), manifesting from childhood. The practice of judo can be an effective tool for improving motor skills and social abilities in individuals with ASD, as it incorporates discipline and coordinated movements. Objective: To identify the benefits that judo can provide for individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Methods: This is a literature review study that analyzed articles published between 2015 and 2024 using databases such as Scielo, Virtual Health Library, and Google Scholar. A total of 44 articles were found, and after a screening process, 4 studies were selected for analysis. Results: The findings indicated positive outcomes from practicing judo for children and adolescents with ASD, including improvements in physical conditioning and social interaction (interacting with friends and family), as well as an increase in verbal repertoire and interest in participating in new activities. The study found that the training period influences the physical benefits achieved, with programs lasting 6 months or more yielding better results. For psychosocial benefits, only 2 months of judo practice were sufficient to observe significant changes. However, during the COVID-19 lockdown, the achieved benefits were lost, demonstrating the need for continuous judo practice to maintain psychosocial gains. Conclusion: It was concluded that judo positively impacts motor development and social skills in children and adolescents with ASD, provided that its practice is sustained over the long term and remains continuous.