APOIO SOCIAL, ACONTECIMENTOS STRESSANTES, ADAPTABILIDADE E COESÃO EM FAMÍLIAS EM RISCO PSICOSSOCIAL

Abstract

Over the last decades the infant protection systems shifted from an assistance perspective to a perspective focused on family preservation. Since the effectiveness of interventions depends on its adjustment to the needs of these families, it is crucial to analyze the life trajectories and understand the family dynamics. In this study we analyzed family cohesion and adaptability, stressful life events, and social support in families with minors at psychosocial risk. We interviewed 51 participants (64,7% females), aged between 16 and 57 years-old, living in Faro. We used the Arizona Social Support Interview Schedule, the Scale of Social Support for Stressful Life Situations, the Family Adaptation and Cohesion Scales, the Inventory of Stressful and Risk Situations, and a socio-demographic questionnaire. Families had a high unemployment rate and an accentuated educational, financial and occupational precariousness. Participants experienced a significant number of stressful life events, mainly related to psychological, marital and financial problems, with high emotional impact. Regarding family functioning, cohesion levels were higher than adaptability levels. Participants reported a higher need for emotional support than informative or material support. Participants received little support from professionals and their main source of social support were Familias em risco psicossocial 305 family members and friends. We discuss the needs for support and intervention to be taken into account by professionals who work with these families.