CARE OF CHILDREN WITH AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDER: AN INTEGRATIVE REVIEW OF THE LITERATURE

Abstract

Objective: To analyze in the existing literature the approach to the care of children with autism spectrum disorder. Materials and Methods: Integrative review of articles published between 2019 and 2024 in the Web of Science, Scopus and SciELO databases, using the
descriptors caregivers, needs, quality of life, autism spectrum disorder, and children. Of the 497 articles retrieved, 16 were selected for review analysis after applying the inclusion and
exclusion criteria. Results: The main themes identified were barriers to caregiving, consequences of the diagnosis, caregiving needs, caregiver caregiving, feminization of
caregiving and caregiving facilitators. Conclusion: The caregiving experiences of children with autism spectrum disorder vary across countries. However, the feminization of caregiving persists. Each autistic child is unique and has his or her own needs and challenges, as does
each family caregiver, especially those related to timely care and the need for emotional support. Unfortunately, in many parts of the world autism is still stigmatized and there is a lack of understanding, which can lead to situations of discrimination and difficulties for the inclusion of autistic children in society, especially in the health, education and community
settings.