CHALLENGES FACED BY CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER IN PARTICIPATING IN PHYSICAL ACTIVITIES

Children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) encounter numerous individual, environmental, and social challenges in participating in physical activities. Despite the developmental benefits of physical activity, such as improvements in motor skills, social interaction, sensory regulation, and emotional balance children with ASD often experience limited participation. This limitation not only affects their development but also impacts their families quality of life of. The purpose of this study is to explore the barriers faced by children with ASD in engaging in physical activities, as perceived by parents and professionals working who closely with them. This research employed a qualitative design. Participants included teachers, parents, speech therapists, physiotherapists, and occupational therapists who provide care or educational services to children with ASD. Data were gathered through semi-structured interviews and analyzed using content analysis techniques. Analysis of the data revealed four main themes: individual behavioral characteristics, intensity of environmental stimuli, socio-emotional challenges, and educational/structural deficiencies. Participants emphasized that these factors significantly hinder active participation in physical activities. Additionally, there was a strong consensus on the necessity for individually tailored environments and professional support in physical activity programs. The study concludes that improving physical activity participation among children with ASD requires the implementation of structured, individualized programs that are professionally supported and carefully balanced in terms of environmental stimuli.