INTERPRETING ATYPICAL EATING PRACTICES AND BEHAVIORS AS CONTRIBUTING FACTORS IN FOSTERING FAMILY RESILIENCE

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Abstract
Objective: to understand Atypical Eating Practices and Behaviors as elements of the resilience process in families with children diagnosed with Autism Spectrum Disorder. Method: a qualitative study using a multiple case study approach. Twenty-five families from five Brazilian states participated. Data were collected between June 2021 and August 2022 through online interviews. A general analytical strategy was employed, processing the data from scratch, along with the cross-case synthesis analytical technique. The analysis enabled the abstraction of a general theoretical explanation. Results: the following theoretical categories emerged: Atypical Eating Practices and Behaviors and Perceptions of Practices and Strategies. Assigning meaning to Atypical Eating Practices and Behaviors as elements of the family resilience process involves understanding that when families recognize and invest in key processes, share them internally and externally, they begin to normalize their children's needs regarding eating practices and behaviors. Families demonstrate that they do not limit potential based on the condition, thereby promoting the child’s holistic development. The study identifies the child’s autonomy and the family’s organization to provide meaningful support, aiming to implement changes and strategies in daily food-related activities that include the child. Conclusion: families strive to recognize their beliefs, organization, and communication regarding their children's eating habits, seeking ways to strengthen family functioning and resilience. The theoretical framework developed in this study may be modified; however, once validated, it can be used by professionals working in clinical practice with families and in the development of interventions aimed at promoting family resilience processes.

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