O transtorno do espectro autista de alto funcionamento e a terapia dos esquemas: percepções de psicólogos clínicos

Abstract

Researchs about High Functioning Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD-AF), in the approach of Schema Therapy are scarce, especially in portuguese. This exploratory research evaluated the perception of 7 clinical psychologists specialized in cognitivebehavioral therapy and schema therapy, about the main Early Maladaptative Schemes (EMSs) present in people with high functioning autism spectrum disorder, as well as themain impressions about TEA-AF. An online questionary was conducted with 17 questions in total, 15 closed and 2 open, so that the participants could identify the main EMSs present in people with ASD-AF, as well as those that could be modified with psychotherapy. The main impressions of therapists on the characteristics of ASD-AF were also investigated. The results were analyzed using descriptive statistics and calculation of Kendall's coefficient of agreement. As for diagnostic impressions, most professionals attribute the TEA-AF to male (71%), white (100%) and admit thatthe presence of stereotypes and manual criteria influence the diagnosis (71%). Therewas agreement in the general sample regarding the presence of EMSs of social isolation (100%, T= 0.7; p < 0.008) and insufficient self-control (100%; T= 0.7; p < 0.008) in people with ASD-AF. For the sample of therapists, cognitive-behavioral psychotherapy and schema therapy are effective in decreasing the activation of EMSs of social isolation and insufficient self-control (TT= 0.7; p < 0.008). Data from the international researchs corroborate these findings.