Creation and Validation of an Educational Booklet on Autism Spectrum Disorder.

Abstract

Objectives: To develop and validate an educational booklet that contributes to alleviating the difficulties experienced by family members of children diagnosed as being on the Autism Spectrum.

Methods: A descriptive exploratory study with a quali-quantitative approach. Ten families of children on the autism spectrum and twelve judges participated in the validation. Data collection took place through open interviews and data was analysed according to the procedures recommended by Bardin.

Results: Difficulties identified included problems in children's verbal and non-verbal communication, daily care, school inclusion, late diagnosis due to the lack of specialists, and lack of psychological support for the family and for handling the child during an episode of crisis. Informational needs included early diagnosis, evolution and management of crises, children's ability to learn daily life activities, and information about their right to inclusion in formal education. Based on these difficulties and needs, the booklet was created and validated by eight experts and four family members. Comparing the average of positive reviews in each section, which were obtained in the first and second evaluations, there was a general improvement in the quality of the booklet.

Conclusions: The validation of educational materials on this topic can be essential to improve the quality of life of children, families, and educators.