The development of autonomy is described as an important developmental task during adolescence. However, the complexity of the theme hinders the comprehension of what is considered autonomy, as the relation of the results that are found in the scientific literature. With the objective of describing the main concepts, theoretical models and variables associated to adolescent's autonomy, was done a systematic review of Brazilian and international publications. 46 papers that discussed the autonomy as a personal ability were selected. They were classified according to: concepts used, sample, instruments and variables associated to autonomy. The analysis revealed a multiplicity of concepts and instruments in the comprehension of this ability; the existence of a main profile of adolescent in which are based most of the publication; the association of this capacity to contextual, adjustment and family environment variables. The autonomy was described as a complex and influenced by contextual variables. A critical discussion about what has been produced in the field was made.
autonomy; adolescent; adolescence
