Acessibilidade / Reportar erro

AUTONOMY OF YOUNG PEOPLE WITH DOWN SYNDROME: CONCEPTIONS OF MOTHERS AND CHILDREN

ABSTRACT

The objective of this article was to analyze the conceptions of mothers and children in relation to the autonomy of young people with Down Syndrome. In this sense, 20 mothers and 20 young people with Down Syndrome participated in this study. A qualitative study was carried out through semi-structured interviews, which were recorded, transcribed and subsequently analyzed. The results of the study showed that the perspective of mothers regarding autonomy concerns carrying out daily activities at home, but when leaving this environment, they show fear, not allowing their children to extend this autonomy to other environments. With regard to young people with Down Syndrome, it is possible to notice that even though they do not understand their genetic condition and what autonomy actually means, they demonstrate the desire to have a life like any other young person, who studies, dates, works, leaves home alone. Thus, it is necessary to implement programs aimed at training professionals, families and young people with DS in helping autonomy.

KEYWORDS
Youth; Down Syndrome; Autonomy; Mothers

Associação Brasileira de Pesquisadores em Educação Especial - ABPEE Av. Eng. Luiz Edmundo Carrijo Coube, 14-01 Vargem Limpa, CEP: 17033-360 - Bauru, SP, Tel.: 14 - 3402-1366 - Bauru - SP - Brazil
E-mail: revista.rbee@gmail.com