Significant social networks and violence against women: Perspective of professionals from a shelter

Abstract

This qualitative study identified the structural characteristics of the significant social networks constituted in the context of the sheltering of women in situations of violence. Ten professionals were interviewed from a shelter located in the South of Brazil. The organization and analysis of the data was based on the Grounded Theory and software Atlas. ti 7.0. During the women's stay, the professionals noted networks that: (a) wanted to offer help but were unable to ensure safety, (b) made it difficult to leave the shelter for religious or cultural reasons, (c) could help with these women's social reintegration. The professionals considered the significant social networks as key elements for the rescue of bonds broken by the situation of violence.