QUALITY OF LIFE IN MOTHERS OF ADULT CHILDREN WITH MODERATE OR SEVERE AUTISM SPECTRUM DISORDERS (ASD): RELATIONSHIP WITH INDICES OF RELIGIOSITY AND ALTRUISTIC BEHAVIOR

Abstract

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a chronic and severe behavioral syndrome that interferes with the Quality of Life (QoL) of the affected individual, their family, and the mother. Objective: Mothers' QoL is affected by their symptoms and their expectations for the growth and development of their children. Methodology: Thirty mothers of children with moderate or severe ASD, aged over 18, and 30 mothers of children of similar ages without any condition were evaluated. Its was used The Pelotas Social Classification Scale (PSQL), WHOQOL bref, religiosity scale (Duke and BMMRS-P), and self-reported altruism. The diagnosis was confirmed clinically and using the Autistic Traits Scale (ATA). Differences in socioeconomic profile, religiosity, and altruism levels were investigated as potential protective factors for these mothers' QoL. Results: No differences were observed in socioeconomic status, maternal age, or single parenthood. The QoL of mothers in the experimental group was similar to that of the control group, but differed qualitatively in sociability and family life, unrelated to altruism indices in both groups. Mothers in the control group presented institutionalized religiosity, while mothers in the experimental group had no connection to institutional religion, but connected to the experience of the numinous related to their religious histories and daily spiritual experiences.