The Perceptions of Children and Adolescents in Shelter Institutions on the Protective Caretakers

Abstract

This paper presents research conducted at shelter institutions (Inst. A and Inst. B) for children and adolescents in a city of RS. The study aimed to understand the perceptions of children and adolescents on their interactions with their caregivers. It was considered what children and adolescents think over care and what characteristics are perceived and pointed at the caregivers as relevant. It is an exploratory, descriptive and qualitative study. The method was the ecological engagement with systematic observations, field diary and interviews with children and adolescents. In the Inst. A the positive interaction and emotional support was evidenced in the caregivers who valued the dialogue. In the Inst. B the focus was on the instrumental support composed for help at the school activities, distribution of sweets and toys. In both institutions the respondents mentioned the importance of horizontal and affective interactions with caregivers which are perceived to promote development.