Changes perceived by family members of children/adolescents experiencing psychic suffering who participated in an operational group

An exploratory descriptive study of qualitative approach with the objective to identify the changes perceived by family members of children and adolescents in psychic suffering who participated in operational groups. The data were collected using semi-structured interviews conducted with eight family members and then submitted to thematic analysis, generating three categories: a) change in emotional expression, b) change in self-perception and c) learning techniques for dealing with psychic suffering. The results demonstrated that the groups provide an opportunity for tension relief, function as spaces for clarification and listening and sharing concerns, improve family interactions, stimulate self-care, and teach members how to use social interaction techniques. We conclude that the benefits perceived by family members participating in groups demonstrate the possibility of facilitating operational groups based on Pichon Rivière’s theory. To this effect, nursing professionals must receive qualified training in order to comprehend, apprehend and make use of this technology. doi: 10.5216/ree.v16i3.21777.