Como mães de crianças autistas percebem os impactos do uso de dispositivos digitais na vida de seus filhos?

Abstract

Autism or Autism Spectrum Disorder is a developmental condition in which a person has impaired functionalities such as social interaction, verbal and non-verbal communication and rigid behaviors. Although there is a lot of research that supports the use of technology to help people with autism, there are studies that question the excessive use of digital media and technology by autistic people. But regarding autistic children and adolescents, how do mothers assess the influence of the use of digital media on the development of skills, communication, social interaction, and health in the lives of their autistic children? This study aims to analyze mothers' assessments of the influence of digital media use on the lives (skills, communication, interaction, and health) of autistic children and adolescents. A qualitative, descriptive and crosssectional study was carried out in June 2023, in which 11 mothers of autistic children living in the municipality of Uberaba (MG) were interviewed, whose topics involved the context of digital media use, preferences, age at which they started using it, time of use, restrictions, mothers' perceptions of the contributions and detriments of using digital media in the autistic child's routine, digital media in communication and social interaction, tasks and skills acquired through digital technologies, observations regarding stress and anxiety, quality of sleep, physical activity and health, and a summary of the advantages and disadvantages of digital devices. Based on the analysis of the data, it was possible to see that excessive use, without a specific purpose, can have a negative effect on some points such as: sleep, agitation, dependence, and stress. Positive perceptions include increased creativity, stimulation of art such as drawing and music, distraction (recreation and leisure), self-regulation, help with school activities, help with communication and oral expression. Therefore, the research revealed that it is crucial to find an appropriate balance regarding the use of digital devices by autistic children, ensuring that technologies are applied effectively and safely. In this way, it is possible to improve skills and promote well-being, highlighting the need for a balanced approach to the use of these tools.