Psychoeducational program to improve the quality of family life for adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities and/or autism
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.18554/refacs.v14i00.8700Keywords:
Adolescent, Intellectual disability, Autism Spectrum Disorder, Family, Quality of LifeAbstract
Objective: to evaluate the effects of a psychoeducational program on family quality of life for family members of adolescents and adults with intellectual disabilities and/or autism spectrum disorder. Methods: a quantitative. descriptive, quasi-experimental study was conducted with family members participating in a psychoeducational program in the first semester of 2023. Data collection was carried out using the Family Quality of Life Scale for families with children with Intellectual and/or Developmental Disabilities and descriptive reports, before and after the intervention. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics of field diary entries made throughout the intervention. Results: six family members participated, most of whom had complete secondary school education (four mothers, one aunt, and one grandmother) who cared for individuals aged 10 to 21 years. Sixteen weekly one-and-a-half-hour meetings were offered. Slight variations were observed in family quality of life scores between pre and post-intervention periods, with maintenance or worsening in some domains. Conversely, field diary data indicated an increased perception of support, strengthened family bonds, and greater awareness of educational practices and care strategies. Conclusion: the program proved to be a viable strategy for promoting reflection and strengthening family relationships, indicating the relevance of family-centered interventions in the context of adolescence and adulthood for people with intellectual disabilities and/or autism.
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