Perception of caregivers of preschool children with ASD on their behavior and occupational performance during the COVID-19 pandemic

• Published in: Cadernos Brasileiros de Terapia Ocupacional 2024, Vol.32
• Main Authors: Silva, Maene Pinheiro, Souza, Rosangela Gomes da Mota de, Oliveira, Karina Ferreira de, Cardoso, Ana Amélia, Magalhães, Lívia de Castro
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• ISSN: 2526-8910; 2526-8910
• DOI: 10.1590/2526-8910.ctoao275935902

Abstract Introduction Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) face behavioral, sensory processing, cognitive, and language challenges that affect their ability to perform activities of daily living (ADL) and necessitate access to educational, therapeutic, and health services. The COVID-19 pandemic limited access to these essential services, exacerbating the challenges faced by this vulnerable population due to imposed social distancing measures. Objective To explore the perceptions of parent caregivers of preschoolers with ASD regarding their children’s behavior and performance in ADL during the COVID-19 pandemic. Method This cross-sectional, descriptive study utilized both quantitative and qualitative approaches, interviewing 60 caregivers of preschoolers with ASD. Participants were asked about any observed changes in their child’s behavior and ability to engage in ADL during the pandemic. Child characterization involved the Autism Classification System of Functioning: Social Communication (ACSF:SC), the Pediatric Evaluation of Disability Inventory - Computer Adaptive Test (PEDI-CAT), and the Sensory Profile 2 (SP-2). Interviews were documented, with 15 recorded and transcribed for thematic content analysis. Results Participants included 43 mothers, 15 couples, and two fathers, totaling 60 children, of whom 46 (76.7%) were boys aged between 3 and 5 years (mean age 53.6 ±10.18 months). Caregivers reported changes in behavior and performance in ADL, predominantly noting deterioration. Increases in stereotypic behaviors, rigidity, and hyperfocus were observed, along with decreased participation in ADL. While the presence of caregivers benefited some children, it also led to reported stress, particularly among mothers. Conclusion The study found a predominant trend of deteriorating behavior and performance in ADL among children with ASD during the pandemic, based on caregiver reports. Resumo Introdução Crianças com Transtorno do Espectro Autista (TEA) podem apresentar questões comportamentais, no processamento sensorial, na cognição e na linguagem, que afetam seu desempenho ocupacional, necessitando de acesso a serviços escolares, terapêuticos e de saúde. O acesso a esses serviços esteve restrito durante a pandemia de COVID-19, tornando essa população particularmente ainda mais vulnerável às restrições sociais impostas à época. Objetivo Descrever a percepção dos pais cuidadores de pré-escolares com TEA acerca do comportamento e desempenho ocupacional de