Mothers' perspective on violence against children: constructing meanings

Abstract

OBJECTIVE: To explore the construct elaborated by the mother on the meaning of violence against the child and to identify, according to the mother's perspective, which measures are most used for the prevention of this phenomenon. METHOD: This is a qualitative research, with the participation of thirty mothers, in a health service in the city of Ananindeua, in the state of Pará, Brazil. The methodology consisted of the categorical content analysis, which identified three categories: Violence, Threats of violence and Protective measures. RESULTS: The research showed that mothers attribute different meanings to violence, but the physical and sexual violence were markedly the most highlighted, and the dialogue was the most used protective measure. CONCLUSION: It is essential to strengthen public policies through effective interventions, seeking solutions to address this phenomenon in all segments of society.