Percepção dos pais em relação ao diagnóstico e acompanhamento de crianças portadoras de transtornos mentais

Abstract

Mental disorders in children are still a challenge for parents and health professionals. Given the complexity of each of these conditions, understanding the experiences of parents and/or guardians has become an urgent matter, due to the high rates of children with mental disorders. To this end, studies that address this topic are needed, with the aim of offering tools that can collaborate in the care of health professionals. This study sought to understand the experiences of parents and/or guardians of children with mental disorders. The objective of this study was to identify facilities, barriers and strategies of parents/family members, as well as their difficulties and support received in the daily lives of children with mental disorders. This was a descriptive, cross-sectional study with a qualitative approach, based on the methodology of the Discourse of the Collective Subject. The parents and/or guardians of children with mental disorders treated at the Child Psychosocial Care Center (CAPSi) participated in the research. In this study, the population was intentionally defined, as were those who were interested in participating in the research. The interviews were recorded on digital media, in order to record the statements. The information regarding the sociodemographic characterization and professional aspects were coded and cataloged. The verbal data obtained in the interviews were transcribed in full, suppressing any information that could identify the interviewee. In the technique, the collected statements were systematized and organized using the Microsoft Word program. Twelve parents/guardians participated in the research. The female gender predominated (90.9%), with an average age of 43 years. Regarding the statements, the elaboration of the results through the Discourse of the Collective Subject was guided by four aspects: facilities, strategies, difficulties and supports. Thus, the aspects served as a parameter for selection and grouping of categories for presentation of the Discourse of the Collective Subject. It was evident that there is a need to involve the children's parents in a more active role in the activities conducted at CAPSi. They should be encouraged to develop a deeper understanding and positive relationship with their children, who are also in their care.