Meanings of family dynamics by men who reproduced domestic violence

Abstract

Objective: To analyze the meanings attributed to family dynamics by men who reproduced domestic violence suffered in their childhood. Methods: This is a qualitative research guided in the light of Symbolic Interactionism. We sought to know the oral history of men under criminal prosecutions before the 2nd Court of Justice for Peace at Home, located in the city of Salvador, Bahia, Brazil. To this end, interviews were used, which were transcribed, textualized and transcribed. Data organization was based on content analysis. Results: The statements reveal that interpreting physical, psychological aggression, neglect and witness of domestic violence experiences between parents in childhood directed constructing the meanings that family dynamics must be based on male control and domination over the wife and children, principles that guided family relationships in adulthood. Conclusion: The stories refer to the meaning that family dynamics must be delineated based on sexual division of roles, with men being considered providers and maximum authority of the house, and women, responsible for children care. It is also noted the symbology that father-children interaction must be established in a rude and severe way. These meanings predispose to reproducing violence during adulthood, which demonstrates the importance of actions that make it possible to redefi ne violent family interactions, preferably still in childhood.