Solidary support networks for autism in Brazil: a systematic review of the last decade

This article aimed to verify the existence of supportive networks for people with ASD and their families in Brazil, through a Systematic Review of the literature. Initially, a theoretical framework on Autism Spectrum Disorder and Solidarity Networks was elaborated. Then, the methodology was described, presenting the guiding question: Are there supportive networks of support for people with ASD and their families in Brazil? More specifically, answers were sought to these elements: a) What are the properties of existing networks; b) Which actors interact in TEA networks; c) What kind of interaction is there between the actors. A survey of the scientific production of the last 10 years was carried out using the terms Autism, Solidarity Networks, Support Networks, Organizations, Autistic, Autistic Spectrum Disorder. The result was positive for the existence of networks, however, with few scientific studies on the subject. It was found that the networks have centralized properties. The actors in the networks are public and private legal entities, non-governmental organizations and individuals. In interactions, there was a low connection with public sector actors due to the lack of public policies involving autism. This research contributes to verifying the need to expand the Support Network for TEA.