Information practices of allergic children’s mothers

Abstract

Objectives. It is questioned how the information practices of mothers of children with food allergies influence their daily life, with the general aim of analyzing these practices under the social paradigm of Information Science. Method. The methodology adopted is the qualitative and the method is the application of semi-structured in-depth interviews. Seven mothers of children with food allergies were interviewed. The data were analyzed applying the twodimensional information practices model proposed by McKenzie and the extended version of it stated by Yeoman. Results. From the interviews, information practices adopted by mothers were identified and coded. Each of the codes was related to the models adopted. Conclusions. It was possible to observe the existence of all modes and phases present in the models. It was also possible to observe the relevance of the mothers’ information practices to maintain the quality of life for their allergic children.biblioteca