Influência das medidas de controle da pandemia pelo COVID-19 no desenvolvimento de crianças e adolescentes com transtorno do espectro autista

Abstract

Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) is a neurodevelopmental disorder that remains undefined as a specific diagnostic marker has not yet been found. It is associated with the presence of repetitive and stereotyped patterns of behavior, as well as deficiency in interaction and social communication and irregular intellectual development. The diagnosis is clinical based on the child's developmental anamnesis and the criteria of the Diagnostic and Statistical Manual of Mental Disorders (DSM-5). The current scenario of pandemic by COVID-19 decreed since March 11, 2020 promotes social distancing, harming children with ASD. Clinics, schools, and institutions are suspending activities and children and adolescents with ASD have stayed longer at home, with their routine modified, causing discomfort and suffering. Given the need to verify the impact of social distancing, this study aims to evaluate the influence of pandemic control measures by COVID-19 on the lives of children and adolescents with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD)