Estratégias de enfrentamento das famílias atípicas diante do diagnóstico do Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) em crianças

Abstract

This study addresses the coping strategies used by atypical families when facing the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in children. The main objective is to investigate the coping strategies employed by families following an ASD diagnosis. It also aims to characterize the disorder in children, describe the diagnostic process, and discuss the family’s perspective. The research used a qualitative and exploratory approach. Data were collected through a sociodemographic questionnaire and semi-structured interviews with eight primary caregivers of children diagnosed with ASD, aged between 3 and 7 years. The data analysis followed the content analysis technique proposed by Bardin (2016). The results revealed significant changes in family routines and dynamics, as well as emotional and financial impacts. Furthermore, coping strategies such as seeking information, spiritual support, social support networks, and self-care were identified. It is concluded that the ASD diagnosis poses challenges to family dynamics, but also encourages the development of adaptive mechanisms that help families reorganize themselves in response to caregiving demands. Social and institutional support is essential to strengthen these families and ensure a better quality of life for children with ASD and their caregivers.