SILVA, Aline Soares Mazzeu da; LIMA, Fabiane Petean Soares de    SALLES, Rodrigo Jorge. Affective bonding of children with autism in hippotherapy: a Winnicott's contribution. []. , 38, 95, pp.238-250. ISSN 1415-711X.

A person with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) may present a difficulty in social interaction and restricted/repetitive interests. Regarding the treatment, the literature mentions some alternative therapies, like the hippotherapy, which uses the horse as the mediator, promoting a great variety of sensorial stimuli and allowing a relationship of exchange and bonding between practitioner, horse, equine therapist and conductor. With this, based on a theoretical study, this research aims to understand how the practice of hippotherapy can influence the establishment of emotional bonds of the child with autism, adopting Winnicott's theory as a theoretical reference. The methodological approach adopted involved the characterization of ASD and hippotherapy, as well as the presentation of the main concepts of Winnicott's theory, in order to discuss all of the points presented, using clinical vignettes. It was emphasized that the horse, conductor, team and the setting can perform the function of holding, handling and allow a transitional experience, allowing the child to have a regressive experience. In this way, he or she can revive stages that have failed and, therefore, allow a resumption of emotional maturing.

: Autism Spectrum Disorder; Childhood; Transitional Objects; Psychoanalysis; Animal Assisted Therapy.

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