O processo de desligamento de adolescentes em acolhimento institucional

Abstract

This study aimed to observethe development of eight adolescents, four girls and four boys, in two host institutions and their process ofgetting out of the institution. We conducted a longitudinal study based on the methodological procedure ofecological engagement, using notes concerning the observations, informal conversations and interviews. Theresults were organized into thematic categories and analyzed based on the Bioecological Human Developmenttheory. Although most adolescents have reported positive feelings and preserved contact with at least onefamily member, family reintegration was difficult even with the efforts of the institution's technical staff. Itis concluded that, besides the difficulty of closer relations between caregivers and some of the youngsters, demonstrated by the escape of four participants, another obstacle is the difficulty of families in overcomingtheir material needs and relationship conflicts.