Children and youth population living in Institutions in Buenos Aires City and covered by a Community Care Program in 2010

Abstract

INTRODUCTION: Children and adolescents living in institutions represent a vulnerable group. It is important to know their situation and specific needs, as well as the resources required for a proper care. OBJECTIVES: To explore the characteristics and institutional path of children and adolescents living in cohabiting, therapeutic and maternal homes in Buenos Aires city. To explore the approach they received from the field of mental health particularly in the Community Care Program (CCP) in 2010. METHODS: A qualitative, descriptive and exploratory design was used, with an intentional non-probabilistic sample. The institutional trajectory and the approach received from the field of mental health were analyzed by exploring medical records and conducting semi-structured interviews to workers homes. RESULTS: A total of 29 cases of children and adolescents living in Buenos Aires Dwelling Homes were analyzed. The study showed long periods of institutionalization, insufficient resources for the proper care, obstacles for social/community integration, difficulties regarding family bonds and exit from the institution, tension and conflicts between institutions involved, and barriers to mental health services, but an efficient approach in the CCP. CONCLUSIONS: The restitution of violated rights is still an ongoing issue. Practices should be established according to local law and to the principles set forth by the Convention on the Rights of the Child. The training of human resources devoted to this population is also a priorty.