Impacto da perturbação do espectro de autismo na realização das tarefas de desenvolvimento de Havighurst

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental condition usually identified in childhood, despite late diagnoses in cases of greater functionality. Havighurst proposes a set of fundamental tasks throughout the life cycle, whose achievement is probably compromised in ASD, even though it lacks scientific evidence. Objective: Understand the development process of three adults and one young person, diagnosed with ASD level I, at different life stages, based on Havighurst's theoretical model. Methods: Through the methodology of life histories, interviews were subject to content analysis. Results: Results pointed out the importance of early detection and interventions, minimizing adversities, above all, for those who had late diagnoses. Self-perceived success, not expected, was found in some development tasks (e.g., morality). Also, expected limitations related to ASD (e.g., relationships with peers) were noticed. Conclusion: It is crucial to improve research on this developmental model and on the factors that delay the diagnosis.