Abstract:

Abstract Objective: to verify the repercussion of social isolation for families with children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Methods: qualitative study with longitudinal follow-up, of an exploratory-descriptive nature, carried out in 2020, based on a semi-structured online questionnaire, carried out in three phases. Data were interpreted by thematic content analysis. Results: the first phase had 30 participants, the second with 10 and the third six, with at least one child diagnosed with the disorder, all male. From the thematic content analysis, the following categories emerged: “Challenges of atypical motherhood and COVID-19”; “ASD in times of coronavirus: (self) regulation strategies” AND “Uncertainties about the future”. Conclusion: in the current pandemic context experienced, the family routine of autistic people presented changes with possible damage to the mental health of all those involved in the care. These findings point to the need to formulate strategies aimed at well-being and minimizing impacts on these people's family routine.

Keywords: