Institutional caregiver experiences in child care

Ruth Irmgard Bärtschi Gabatz,Viviane Marten Milbrath,Eda Schwartz

doi:10.1590/2177-9465-ean-2018-0195

Ruth Irmgard Bärtschi Gabatz, Viviane Marten Milbrath + Show 1 more

Open Access

https://doi.org/10.1590/2177-9465-ean-2018-0195

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Abstract

ABSTRACT Objective: to know the experience of institutional caregivers in child care. Method: qualitative research that used the Attachment Theory and the Symbolic Interactionism. Fifteen caregivers were interviewed, in 2015, in a child care institution based in a municipality in the south of Brazil. Data were analyzed through content analysis. Results: two categories emerged from the study: Embracing the children in the institution; Helping children adapt to institutionalization. Institutionalization imposes several social ills, such as abandonment and violence. These must be faced by caregivers, generating sadness and revolt. In addition, institutionalization leaves a mark on the child’s life, which belongs to no one, nor has his individuality and subjectivity preserved. Conclusion and Implications for practice: it is necessary to provide caregivers psychological support and Permanent Education so that they are supported in the work, improving the conditions of care offered to the child.

Highlights

Child institutionalization is an exceptional and provisional measure used to offer children a protection place when they cannot stay with their parents.[1]
This study aims to know the experience of institutional caregivers in child care from the following research question: “How does the institutional caregiver live the child care?”
The work of caregivers goes through several stages during the institutionalization of children, in this process they stand out: embracement, adaptation of the child and preparation for leaving the institution

Summary

Introduction

Child institutionalization is an exceptional and provisional measure used to offer children a protection place when they cannot stay with their parents.[1]. The child needs protection, the best place for their development is with the family, because the child and the adolescent have the right to be raised by this or a surrogate family, guaranteeing them family and community living.[1] In this context, the family should be embraced and strengthened so that it would be able to continue with its children.This can be achieved through public policies that invest in guaranteeing the rights of children and adolescents to remain with their family ties,[4] instead of welcoming them into institutions. Considering the maintenance of family and community ties as a priority for child development, it is necessary, whenever possible, to seek the reintegration of children in institutional care

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