Adolescentes em conflito com a lei: Percepções sobre a família

Abstract

This article presents three case studies of adolescents, young offenders, focusing on their family perceptions. Theinstruments utilized were a semi-structured interview, the genogram and the Family System Test (FAST). The results of the FAST test revealed unstable and unbalanced family structures with cohesion varying between low and average and hierarchy varying from low to high. The instruments used in this study showed that the mother and sisters were identified as support figures who were present throughout their development, representing an important protective factor. This study highlights the importance of understanding the way in which these families function, in respect to hierarchy, cohesion andeducational practices, in order to propose appropriate prevention and intervention programs for this population.