Crianças com transtorno do espectro autista: uma investigação sobre intervenções terapêuticas e as percepções dos responsáveis

Abstract

Objective: To describe the sociodemographic and health characteristics of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) and their guardians, analyzing the influence of socioeconomic factors on early diagnosis and therapeutic interventions, as well as understanding parental perceptions about the difficulties and potentialities in care. Methods: A mixed-methods study conducted between May and August 2025 with 112 guardians of children with ASD (≤12 years) affiliated with the AUMA (Passo Fundo, RS) and Esperança Azul (Carazinho, RS) associations. Data collection was carried out using a self-administered online questionnaire. Quantitative variables were analyzed using frequencies and Pearson's chi-square and Fisher's exact tests; qualitative data were analyzed using Bardin's (2011) content analysis. Results: 58.9% of the children received an early diagnosis and 67% underwent some therapeutic intervention. Early diagnosis was associated with the guardian's race (p=0.004), good sleep quality (p=0.019), and presence of comorbidities (p=0.002). Therapy was more frequent among guardians with more than 8 years of education (p=0.049), income above three minimum wages (p=0.002), good/excellent sleep (p=0.019), formal employment (p=0.003), and access to private healthcare or health insurance (p<0.001). Financial limitations were associated with the absence of therapy (p=0.028). The qualitative analysis highlighted emotional overload, financial difficulties, and reorganization of the family routine, in addition to resilience and hope regarding child development. Conclusion: Socioeconomic factors and the health conditions of guardians influenced the diagnosis and early treatment of ASD, reinforcing the importance of public policies that expand access and support for families.