CHILDHOOD AUTISM: CONCEPTS AND PSYCHOLOGICAL PRACTICE

Abstract

Objective: To analyze psychologists’ conceptions regarding the autistic disorder and to describe how is carried out the treatment of the autistic children and their familiar ones supported in the space of public mental health. Material and Method: The research was performed in the city of Campina Grande, Paraiba, Brazil, in the Center for Childhood Psychosocial Care - CAPSi. This is a qualitative, exploratory, analytical and descriptive study whose sample consisted of 07 psychologists who have answered a semi-structured interview script. Results: In the analysis on the infantile autism the following categories have been identified: invasive development disorder; psychic disorder originated from the bond mother/baby and invasive development disorder with organic cause, as well as cause attributed to the relation mother/baby. With regards to treatment, are evidenced: Therapeutic workshops; Playful activities; Individual consultations; in group and systematic familiar follow up. Conclusion: Through the informants’ statements, it is clear that conceptions of autism vary, however they are based on psychoanalytic postulates. With regards to treatment, it was found that the respondents contemplate the methodology adopted by the institution as well as searched literature. DESCRIPTORS: Mental Health. Autistic Disorder. Child Development