A experiência da maternidade para mães de crianças com TEA: será possível sentido?

Abstract

This research aimed to study the meaning of life in mothers of children diagnosed with ASD (Autism Spectrum Disorder). The study brought into its scope issues such as motherhood of autistic children, discovery of the diagnosis, proliferation of cases and coping with the problem. The theoretical basis for developing the research was Logotherapy by Viktor Fankl with his studies on the meaning of life. Regarding methodology, the research is characterized as a qualitative study, with a phenomenological nature as a cartographic method. Thus, four women were heard and answered a triggering question, narrating their experience of motherhood, diagnosis and coping. The results indicate that these mothers find meaning in mothering a child with autism, presenting, in many moments, the concept of actuation brought by Logotherapy. However, they highlight the fear about their child's future in a society that is very prejudiced and that is little prepared to receive and offer possibilities to those who are seen as different.