A narrative review: basketball as a mean of inclusion for people with autistic spectrum disorder

Abstract

The studies that relate the Autism Spectrum Disorder with the physical activity have currently increased, being sport a byword for improvement on people’s life quality. However, all the investigations that join the Autism Spectrum Disorder and sport refer to individual performances, such as swimming or equestrianism. Thus, the goal of the narrative review is to recognize what produces the literature about Autism Spectrum Disorder and sports (focusing on group sports, particularly basketball). This narrative revision suggests an ample sport offer in collective sports, especially basketball, finding on its practice a very positive and beneficial set for the absolute development of people with ASD. Sport is ratified as an indispensable channel of inclusion and growth in people with autism, in addition to evince the potential of group sports, specifically basketball, when progressing in diagnostic aspects where people with ASD find more difficulties (social relationships, executive functions, relationship with and in the environment). As conclusions, it is highlighted the need of continuing with investigations that relate autism with group sports, as well as field studies regarding basketball producing this way knowledge about the possibilities of inclusion and development that its practice offers to people with ASD.