Self-esteem aspects of children and adolescents in street situation: thinking about nursing care

Abstract

In this study we sought to identify aspects of self-esteem expressed by homeless children and adolescents in Goiânia – GO (Brazil). This is a qualitative research, developed during collective activity carried out in a public square garden with a group of homeless children and adolescents. Data were collected through individual interviews and field-diary notes and analyzed by content analysis and thematic modality method, from the following categories: self-esteem damage and life fragments. In a general manner, it was identified on speeches that the self-esteem in this group is highly damaged due to the exposition to violence, abandonment and mistreatment. On the other hand, the signs of caring established during the activities allowed us to verify the potentiality for self-esteem promotion, expressed by the desire and dream of a better life, which also allow us to conclude that more than the need of assistance there is a social responsibility on the Nursing Care.