Relacionamento intergeracional, práticas de apoio e cotidiano de famílias de crianças com necessidades especiais

Abstract

This exploratory study based on a qualitative approach aimed to investigate intergenerational relationships and support practices in the daily lives of families of children with special needs. Study participants were five mothers, grandmothers and older siblings of children with disabilities, who answered a semi-structured interview guide. The interviews were analyzed qualitatively using the Collective Subject Discourse technique. It was found that grandmothers have been an important source of support for the family, because they are also concerned about devoting attention and care to the siblings of the child with disabilities. The study reveals a positive intergenerational relationship between grandmothers and grandchildren. The study highlights the need for directing more specialized attention to these family members and points out the need for further research on the subject.