THE CONTRIBUTIONS OF EQUINE THERAPY FOR THE PSYCHOMOTOR DEVELOPMENT OF THE CHILD WITH AUTISTIC SPECTRUM DISORDER

Abstract

This papers to investigate the contributions of Equoterapia for the psychomotor development of the child with ASD (Autistic Spectrum Disorder). In order to do so, we conducted research on databases and indexers, searching for articles, dissertations, theses, books on specialized sites, on the subject in question, selecting materials related to the area of ​​Psychology and Special Education. Autism is a syndrome that is characterized by lack of interpersonal relationship, difficulty in communication, repetitive movements and stereotypies, as well as by psychomotor difficulties, the autistic child does not adequately develop the notions of Corporal Scheme, also impairing the development of static equilibrium , of laterality, of the notion of reveribility, considered basic functions necessary for the acquisition of autonomy and cognitive learning. One of the treatments indicated is Equoterapia, a therapeutic method that uses a horse as instrument, aiming to work motor, cognitive and affective aspects, for a biopsychosocial development. The interaction with the horse contributes to the development of new forms of communication, socialization, self-confidence and self-esteem, as well as the satisfaction of riding on the horse, who accept them as they are, cause them to try to show their feelings through expressions, sounds or words, increasing their cognitive ability.