REPERCUSSIONS OF FATHERING CHILDREN WITH AUTISM ON MEN'S LIVES AND HEALTH

Authors

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.20873/2024_jul_18634%20

Abstract

Fatherhood produces important changes and meanings in a man's life. Historical and social constructions have forged models that have exempted men from taking on all or part of the responsibility for caring for their children. This study, guided by a qualitative approach, aimed to understand the relationships between the performance of fatherhood and the repercussions on the lives and health of men who are fathers of children with autism, highlighted by the subjectivities expressed during the exercise of different social roles, using Gender as the central category of analysis, in the light of post-feminist theories and studies on masculinities. Semi-structured interviews were conducted with 32 men living in Minas Gerais in April and May 2023. Thematic content analysis was used to construct two categories: 1) Fragilities, subterfuges and overcoming; and 2) Priorities, renunciations and support. It was concluded that men gave a positive meaning to fatherhood and showed commitment to caring for their children, without exception. By prioritizing their children, they experienced effects in various dimensions, when they significantly abdicated their own health and self-care. They reported difficulties in talking about their feelings and seeking support, reiterating that men remain affiliated to dominant models of masculinity.

Author Biography

Celina Maria Modena, Instituto René Rachou

Possui Pós-Doutorado em Saúde Coletiva pela Fiocruz-MG, Doutorado em Ciências pela UFRRJ, graduação em Psicologia pela UFMG e graduação em Medicina Veterinária pela UFRGS. É orientadora de mestrado e doutorado do curso de Pós-Graduação em Saúde Coletiva,área Ciências Humanas e Sociais em Saúde, da Fiocruz-Minas. Atualmente é bolsista do IRR/FIOCRUZ tendo experiência na área de Saúde Coletiva, Trabalho e Educação em Saúde, Políticas Públicas, Psicologia Social e Saúde Mental. Parecerista e consultora ad hoc de periódicos científicos no âmbito da Saúde Coletiva. Orientou diversas teses e dissertações e publicou vários trabalhos científicos em revistas indexadas.

Published

2024-07-30

How to Cite

Fonsêca, M. A., Parreiras, L. de A., & Modena, C. M. (2024). REPERCUSSIONS OF FATHERING CHILDREN WITH AUTISM ON MEN’S LIVES AND HEALTH. DESAFIOS - Revista Interdisciplinar Da Universidade Federal Do Tocantins, 11(5). https://doi.org/10.20873/2024_jul_18634

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