Qualitative and phenomenological research in mental health: Mapping as a proposed descriptive method

Abstract

The Brazilian Mental Health Care model has been discussed for four decades. In recent years, it has shifted from hospital care to a community Psychosocial Care. Both models coexist, demanding to know how care processes are delivered. This study proposes a qualitative and phenomenological method enough to understand this composition. To this end, we discuss the object of health research, its limits and challenges with the change in population profile and habits, address the concept of Mental Health in its subjective and heuristic sphere-the experience-and its possibility of knowledge through phenomenological research. As a result, we present Network as a communication process experienced by its components. Mapping is proposed as a descriptive method of research and knowledge in Mental Health.