Abstract

SOUSA, Liliana  and  RIBEIRO, Cláudia. Multi­‑problematic poor families’ perception of their own competences. Psicologia [online]. 2005, vol.19, n.1-2, pp.169-191. ISSN 0874-2049.

Multi­‑problem poor families have been characterized in the literature and research as dysfunctional and disorganized. The mention competencies are rare. However the activation of competencies has prove to be an important tool for intervention, thus in this exploratory study we attempt to identify the families perception of what works in their relationship. A semi­‑structured interview was administered to 60 heads of poor households: 32 of multi­‑problem families and 28 of non multi­‑problem. The findings suggest that: the positive aspects are family cohesion, filial attachment and mutual support; families goals are centred on the improvement of their housing conditions and their health status; the events which allowed the family to live better were getting a more stable job and the improvement of the health status. Multi­‑problem poor families emerge as competent, but some how paralysed in the use of their competencies.

Keywords : famílias multiproblemáticas; pobreza; competências; intervenção.

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