This study aimed to analyze the conceptions of professionals from different areas about autism and Down syndrome, those with and without experience in working with these individuals. It included 75 professionals distributed in the following groups: psychiatrists, neurologists, pediatricians, speech therapists, physiotherapists, occupational therapists, physical educators, psychologists, pedagogues and teachers. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with the professionals, which were literally transcribed and submitted to the technique Content Analysis, proposed by Bardin. By analyzing the reports of professionals, it was found that those with experience had more specific knowledge about autism and Down syndrome, while those without experience often mentioned more general features of the two syndromes. Although they considered the deficits that may be present in autism and Down syndrome, it was observed that, in general, the professionals also have demonstrated positive conceptions regarding these two conditions, recognizing the capacities of these individuals. It was noted that some professionals had no knowledge about autism, which did not occur in relation to Down syndrome, pointing to the need for better training of professionals, especially in relation to the first of these conditions, in order to contribute to school and social inclusion of these individuals.
Autism; Down syndrome; conceptions