Tired therapists: from employment precarity to precarious care in the autism industry

Abstract

The model of specialized therapies for skill acquisition in children, particularly autistic children, has been expanding under neoliberal logic. Healthcare professionals experience employment precarity, with repercussions for both their own health and the care provided to children and families. To deepen the understanding of these aspects, this qualitative, retrospective documentary research analyzed 131 therapists’ reports from a social media platform. The results are presented in two themes: (1) the precarization of work and (2) the assistance provided to children. The discussion explores how the relationship between employment precarity and precarious care in the “Autism Industrial Complex” affects professionals, children, and their families. To overcome historically institutionalizing practices and promote effective care, the involvement of all stakeholders is urgently needed in the search for dignified solutions to the severity of the issue, including the expansion of regulations and public policies.