Inclusion

a piagetian approach about friendship in the school context

Abstract

This study investigated, whether there are differences in the concept of friendship, respect for differences and relationships in the school among 17 children studying in inclusive class (IC) with an autistic child and 17 studying in a not inclusive class (NIC). All students are aged 7 to 8 years old. To collect the data were made fourteen cards showing pictures of children in various situations fort the participants to indicate whether or not those children could be friends. Also, an interview guide based on the piagetian clinical method. Most of the participants defined “friendship” and perceive the different similarities. Although IC students seem to be more willing to respect and to relate to those who are seen as different. The data point to the need to encourage friendship and respect for differences in the school context, since it contributes to the social development of children.