WHAT IS THE BEST MODEL OF INCLUSION FOR AUTISTIC INDIVIDUALS IN SOCIETY?

Abstract

The present article aims to investigate the best model of inclusion for autistic individuals, based on a qualitative study conducted at the Self Clinic in Curitiba. Three models were analyzed: the biomedical, the biopsychosocial and the social. The methodology consisted of semi-structured interviews with clinic professionals, participant observation and document analysis. The results indicated that the biopsychosocial model, proposed by De Marco (2006), is the most effective, as it considers the biological, psychological, and social aspects of autism. The social model, presented by França (2013) and Santos (2018), was the least used, as it presents limitations in understanding the specificities of autistic individuals. The biomedical model was criticized for its reductionist and pathologizing view of autism. The conclusion was that the biopsychosocial model offers a more comprehensive and effective approach to the inclusion of autistic individuals, by recognizing the diversity of experiences and needs of these individuals and promoting the creation of more inclusive and empowering environments for them.