BUSTAMANTE, Vania    SANTOS, Isabela. Family dynamics and therapeutic possibilities in a mental health service for children. []. , 19, 2, pp.115-131. ISSN 1679-494X.

This paper reflects on the inclusion of family care into mental health care for children. This study took place in a service for children accompanied by their families. The family arrangements of the participating families who frequent the centre were observed. They were grouped into three types - nuclear, extended and single parent - and the reasons for seeking the service were organized into five topics. We identified some common situations among the surveyed families: conflicts among parents regarding child rearing; concern about the consequences of parental separation; challenges faced by single parents and grandparents who take on the responsibility of caring for grandchildren. Finally, we highlight the need for services to be better prepared to meet and welcome families of various configurations in order to strengthen paternal and maternal functions other than those of biological parents.

: Mental health; Children; Families.

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