REPERCUSSIONS OF ATYPICAL MOTHERHOOD AND THE ROLES PLAYED BY MOTHERS OF CHILDREN WITH DEVELOPMENTAL DISORDERS

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the repercussions of atypical motherhood on the roles played by mothers of children with developmental disorders and to identify strategies they use to cope with emerging difficulties, based on a focus on the occupational dimension of individuals and in light of the bioecological approach to human development. Six mothers participated, each with a child aged between two and thirteen years, diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD), Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), Down Syndrome, or undergoing diagnostic evaluation, who were all involved in a university extension project. Data were collected using a questionnaire to characterize the mothers and their children, the Occupational Role Identification List, and semi-structured interviews. Descriptive analysis revealed that the roles of friend, worker, student, hobbyist/amateur, and religious participant are impaired, despite being valued by the mothers. Three categories emerged from the content analysis: relationships between atypical motherhood and occupational roles; experiences and challenges of atypical motherhood; and strategies to cope with the challenges faced by mothers of children with developmental disorders. The complexity of atypical motherhood results in the compromise of roles that are significant to women, who tend to neglect their own care and desires in favor of caring for others. This leads to physical and emotional overload, highlighting the urgent need for adequate support and resources for these mothers.