The aim of this article is to examine the importance of adapted physical activities on problem behaviors of individuals with autism spectrum disorder within the scope of the relevant literature. An important sub-objective of the article is to increase awareness and knowledge about autism spectrum disorder. In this context, it is to provide scientific information about the definition of autism spectrum disorder, symptoms, prevalence rates, adapted physical activity and current intervention approaches for problem behaviors. In this study, which was prepared in the traditional review type, the keywords “physical activity”, “adapted physical activity”, “autism spectrum disorder”, “problem behavior” were searched in Pub Med, Web of Science and Google Scholar databases and a comprehensive integrity on the subject was tried to be created. According to the NAC (2015) report, adapted physical activities, which are among the promising practices, create positive changes in the lives of individuals with autism spectrum disorders, minimize the negative effects of problem behaviors and support social integration. Adapted physical activities are personalized physical activities to improve an individual's motor skills, social interactions and overall quality of life. In the planning and implementation of such activities, it is of great importance to customize programs by taking into account the individual needs, capacities and interests of individuals. In this context, based on the results of the research, it can be said that adapted physical activities are an effective method to reduce stereotypical behaviors, self-stimulating behaviors, self-harm and destructive behaviors, especially in the classroom. Considering that the number of individuals with autism spectrum disorder is increasing day by day and that stereotyped behaviors and self-injurious behaviors negatively affect the lives of individuals, the recommendations to be put forward based on the results of the research will give more importance to adapted physical activities along with all other methods.
Physical activity, adapted physical activity, autism, problem behavior.