Enfrentamento materno/paterno: olhar frente ao diagnóstico de espectro autista

Resumo (EN)

Objective – To analyze the challenges faced by mothers and fathers after the diagnosis of Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) in their children, considering the emotional, social, and organizational impacts. Methods – It is configured as a narrative, exploratory-descriptive, and qualitative review, conducted in the SciELO, LILACS, and BDENF databases, including productions from 2020 to 2025 selected thru descriptors “Family AND Autism Spectrum Disorder,” “Autism Spectrum Disorder AND Country,” “Maternities AND Child Development,” “Autism Spectrum Disorder AND Mothers,” and “Autism Spectrum Disorder OR Social Networks.” Eleven complete, free, and Portuguese articles were included. Results – The results show that the diagnosis generates intense changes in family dynamics, marked by fear, denial, overload, and uncertainty, with a predominance of maternal care and variable, yet essential, paternal participation. Adaptation requires the reorganization of routines, the search for information, and psychological and social support, reinforcing the role of support networks. However, there are still weaknesses in the reception and early identification of ASD in healthcare services, indicating the need for nursing qualification and comprehensive practices. Conclusion – It is concluded that parental coping is continuous and multifaceted, depending on the strengthening of support networks and public policies that ensure comprehensive care for the child and the family.