Avaliação do comportamento alimentar de crianças com transtorno do espectro autista (TEA) e a atitude dos cuidadores no momento das refeições

Abstract

Introduction: Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder characterized by persistent impairments in communication and social interaction, associated with restricted and repetitive patterns of behavior, interests, or activities. Among the difficulties presented by autistic children, eating difficulties stand out. Objective: To evaluate the eating behavior of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), as well as the attitude adopted by caregivers in response to this behavior at mealtimes. Methods: This is a cross-sectional study with a qualitative-quantitative approach. Data collection took place in the municipality of Capanema-Pr, with family members of children with ASD, linked to the Association of Parents of Children with ASD and/or who attended municipal schools and early childhood education centers. Sociodemographic, clinical, and child feeding data were collected using a structured questionnaire, validated and translated into Portuguese, called the Brief Record of Eating Behavior (BRCA-TEA). The qualitative stage consisted of two open-ended guiding questions about caregivers' strategies at mealtimes. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics with the aid of SPSS, while qualitative data were analyzed manually with the aid of Microsoft Excel software. Results: The sample consisted mainly of mothers, and the children were predominantly male, with support level 2, frequent use of medication, and the presence of comorbidities, especially attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It was observed that 63.6% of children had eating behavior problems, mainly characterized by selectivity, food refusal, and low acceptance of new foods. There was a significant association between the level of support and sociodemographic variables, such as the child's age, education and age of caregivers, and maternal occupation, with no associations identified with clinical or nutritional variables. Qualitative analysis revealed seven themes and 19 subthemes, highlighting the diversity of strategies used by caregivers, including encouragement, routine organization, interaction, emotional support, games, distractions, and behavioral management, in addition to the challenges, feelings, and perceptions involved in feeding care. Conclusion: Food selectivity in children with ASD is a multifactorial phenomenon influenced by sensory, behavioral, emotional, and family aspects. Eating difficulties have a significant impact on families' daily lives and require interdisciplinary approaches that consider both the child's eating behavior and the family context, strengthening support for caregivers and the implementation of evidence-based strategies.