Information demands from families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder

Objective: to identify the information demands of families of children with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Method: this is a qualitative study conducted through semi-structured and audio-recorded interviews with 55 family members, in the states of Parana, Ceara, and Macapa, between September 2018 and September 2019. Thematic category analysis and Qualitative Data Analysis Software resources were used for data organization. Results: it was identified that families need information regarding the characteristics of Autism Spectrum Disorder (definition, cause, possibility of cure, prognosis and the probability of having another child with Autism Spectrum Disorder); child's routine and behavior; future rights and expectations. Final considerations: information demands are relevant to support professionals, health managers and other services in health care organization to support families of children with autism.