Transtorno do espectro autista: reação dos pais diante do diagnóstico e a repercussão na procura pela intervenção terapêutica precoce

Abstract

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), of multifactorial origin, is characterized by reduced behaviors, such as speech regression, difficulty in socialization and repetitive actions. Objective: To investigate the reaction of parents or guardians to the news of their child's autism diagnosis and the repercussions on early therapeutic intervention. Methodology: Observational, qualitative study, with the participation of ten guardians of children with ASD treated at a Specialized Rehabilitation Center, recruited for convenience in March 2022. The research followed the phases: (1) Application of the sociodemographic questionnaire; (2) Semi-structured interview; (3) Voice recording of interviews; (4) Transcription of recordings; (5) Content analysis. Results: Two fathers and eight mothers participated, between twenty-seven and forty-two years old, mostly married, with monthly family income between one and two minimum wages, education level up to high school and born in Guarabira-PB. Conclusion: Fathers and mothers, faced with the diagnosis of autism in their children, showed reactions such as shock, relief, willingness to give up, fear of the future, non-acceptance, sadness, weight and worry. The impact that the news had on these families did not have a negative impact on seeking early therapy, however, they reported a lack of prior information about ASD.