Perceptions of Quality of Life Among Informal Caregivers of Autistic Children and Adolescents in Chile: A Qualitative Study

ABSTRACT

This study explores the lived experiences and quality of life of informal caregivers of autistic children and adolescents in Chile from a relational and socio‐ecological perspective. Twelve caregivers were recruited through purposive and snowball sampling and participated in semi‐structured interviews. Data were analysed using qualitative content analysis with a deductive–inductive approach, complemented by computational text analysis. Findings show caregiving as a dynamic adaptive process in which daily routines, work trajectories, emotional well‐being and identity are reorganised in response to care demands. Support needs, co‐occurring conditions and limited access to services intensified burden. In contrast, formal and informal support, autism‐related knowledge and opportunities for personal regulation acted as protective factors. Caregivers described coping processes ranging from active problem‐solving to introspective and meaning‐oriented responses. Results indicate that caregiving burden is shaped not only by individual characteristics but also by the availability and coordination of support systems.