RESISTÊNCIA AO DIAGNÓSTICO DE TRANSTORNO DO ESPECTRO AUTISTA NA PRIMEIRA INFÂNCIA EM RELATOS DE FAMILIARES DE SÃO LUÍS (MA)

Objective: To understand how family members described resistance to an autism spectrum disorder (ASD) diagnosis in early childhood, the consequences they perceived, and the support they considered necessary. Methods: An exploratory descriptive qualitative study was conducted at the Associação de Pais e Amigos dos Excepcionais (APAE) in São Luís, Maranhão, Brazil. Family members of children with ASD took part in semi-structured interviews in September and October 2026. The 12 transcribed records were analysed using thematic content analysis. Results: The analysis identified five categories. Family members described relatives who played down early signs or dismissed mothers’ observations, as well as different paths through uncertainty, disagreement and acceptance. One respondent attributed conflict at home to the father’s refusal to accept the diagnosis. Another linked the lack of invitations to family gatherings to relatives’ reactions to her children’s behaviour. Caregiving burden and restrictions on social participation also arose in circumstances distinct from disagreement with the diagnosis. Respondents wanted guidance when receiving the diagnosis, opportunities to speak with other families and psychological support for caregivers. Conclusion: The accounts distinguished disagreement about the diagnosis from uncertainty, unequal caregiving responsibilities and stigma. Support needs concerned both understanding ASD and finding ways to share care and participate in family and social life.