CRACK USERS’ EVALUATION REGARDING FAMILY GROUPS IN THE PSYCHOSOCIAL CARE CENTER

Abstract

This study sought to qualitatively evaluate the perception of crack users regarding family groups. It is an excerpt from a qualitative study undertaken in 2012 in a Psychosocial Care Center – Alcohol and Drugs, in the South of Brazil. It used the theoretical framework of Fourth Generation Evaluation, with the Hermeneutic-Dialectic Circle as its methodological device, through observations and interviews held with 12 crack users. The Constant Comparative Method was used in the analysis, which generated the unit of meaning of Family Group. The group was evaluated by the crack users as an important space for the family members, serving as a source of listening, relieving feelings by expressing grievances, information, and instrumentalizing them in how to deal with the crack users in the home. It is suggested that the substitute services should make varying hours available for family groups, so as to loyalize the families in these spaces and promote the continuity of the treatment and the beneficial effects for the crack users.

Keywords

• Self-help groups
• Evaluation of health services
• Crack cocaine
• Family