THE USE OF DIGITAL GAMES FOR THE DEVELOPMENT OF SOCIAL SKILLS IN AUTISTIC CHILDREN

Abstract

This research investigated how digital games can contribute to the development of social skills in children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). The objective was to analyze the effectiveness of digital games in improving skills such as communication, empathy and conflict resolution. The methodology adopted was a literature review, with the analysis of existing studies that addressed the use of digital games in the educational and therapeutic context for children with ASD. The results indicated that digital games are effective in developing these skills, as they provide a controlled and interactive environment that facilitates social practice. The research also identified that, despite the benefits, there are challenges, such as the need to adapt the games to the specificities of each child and the lack of a theoretical basis in the design of these games. The final considerations pointed out that, although digital games offer great potential, it is necessary to adapt the tools according to the individual needs of children with ASD and to strengthen the theoretical basis in the development of these games. It is also recommended to conduct longitudinal studies to evaluate the long-term effects of digital games on the development of social skills in these children.