Information needs for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder

a qualitative study

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.1590/ce.v30i0.97345pt

Keywords:

Autism Spectrum Disorder, Family, Access to Information, Internet access, Social Support

Abstract

Objective: To map the different information needs of parents of children with autism spectrum disorder about their health condition in virtual communities.

Method: This qualitative study covers 2022 and 2023, using a thematic content analysis approach and social network analysis in virtual media. The study included three Brazilian virtual communities aimed at parents of children with autism.

Results: The posts were organized into “Assessment of children with suspected autism” and “Interventions for children with autism.”

Final considerations: The primary information needs are related to children's rights, behavior, and signs of autism. The study contributes to forming public health, educational, and social policies and recognizing virtual communities with the potential to strengthen care, prevention, and health promotion actions to support the families of autistic children.

Author Biographies

Delmo de Carvalho Alencar, Universidade Regional do Cariri

Enfermeiro. Doutor em Saúde Pública, Docente na Universidade Regional do Cariri, Iguatu, CE, Brasil.

Antonio Rosa de Sousa Neto, Federal University of Piauí

Enfermeiro. Doutorando em Enfermagem, Universidade Federal do Piauí, Teresina, PI, Brasil.

Aline Raquel de Sousa Ibiapina, Federal University of Piauí

Enfermeira. Doutora em Enfermagem, Docente na Universidade Federal do Piauí, Teresina, PI, Brasil.

Joseph Dimas de Oliveira, Universidade Regional do Cariri

Enfermeiro. Doutor em Enfermagem, Docente na Universidade Regional do Cariri, Crato, CE, Brasil.

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Published

2025-04-10

How to Cite

Alencar, D. de C., Sousa Neto, A. R. de, Ibiapina, A. R. de S., & de Oliveira, J. D. (2025). Information needs for parents of children with autism spectrum disorder: a qualitative study. Cogitare Enfermagem, 30. https://doi.org/10.1590/ce.v30i0.97345pt

Issue

Vol. 30 (2025)

Section

ORIGINAL ARTICLE

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Copyright (c) 2025 Delmo de Carvalho Alencar, Antonio Rosa de Sousa Neto, Aline Raquel de Sousa Ibiapina, Joseph Dimas de Oliveira

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