Play in the Diagnosis of Children with Suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)

A Literature Review

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20873/pibic_2024_21120

Abstract

Abstract
This study aimed to reflect on the importance of play in diagnostic processes for suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) from a historical-cultural perspective. Likewise, it sought to highlight its contribution to intervention practices focused on the rehabilitation of children with the disorder. To this end, a narrative literature review was conducted, analyzing scientific articles from the databases Scientific Electronic Library Online (SciELO), Virtual Health Library - Psychology Brazil (BVS Psicologia), Latin American and Caribbean Literature in Health Sciences (LILACS), Electronic Journals in Psychology (PePsic), and Google Scholar. Play was considered a central element in diagnostic evaluations and therapeutic interventions due to its potential to foster social interaction, internalization of meanings, and emotional regulation. The study highlighted three thematic axes: humanization and development through play, its role in assessment and intervention, and recommended types of play activities. Additionally, it emphasized the importance of adult mediation and the need for structured environments to promote the active participation of autistic children. Thus, play emerged as an essential tool in overcoming social barriers and expanding the potential of these individuals.

Author Biographies

Sophia Calixta Cardoso Vieira, Universidade Federal do Tocantins

Graduada em Psicologia pela Universidade Federal do Tocantins. Foi bolsista CNPq na edição PIBIC-UFT 2023/2024.

Ladislau Ribeiro do Nascimento, Universidade Federal do Tocantins

Professor Adjunto na Universidade Federal do Tocantins.

Formador de TCC no curso de especialização em Educação, Pobreza e Desigualdade Social.

Doutor em Psicologia pela Universidade de São Paulo - USP, com aperfeiçoamento de pesquisa na Division of Health Research - Lancaster University (Reino Unido). 

Mestre em Psicologia Social pela Pontifícia Universidade Católica de São Paulo - PUC/SP. 

Graduado em Psicologia pela Universidade Presbiteriana Mackenzie. 

Tem experiência como professor universitário em cursos de graduação e de pós-graduação (lato sensu). Principais temas: Psicologia Escolar e Educacional; modos de produção de subjetividade em contextos escolares; educação e trabalho; Pesquisa-Intervenção.

Published

2025-04-30

How to Cite

Vieira, S. C. C., & Nascimento, L. R. do. (2025). Play in the Diagnosis of Children with Suspected Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD): A Literature Review. DESAFIOS - Revista Interdisciplinar Da Universidade Federal Do Tocantins, 12(1), 1–13. https://doi.org/10.20873/pibic_2024_21120