STRUCTURE OF THE SOCIAL NETWORK OF MOTHERS/CAREGIVERS OF HOSPITALIZED CHILDREN

Objective: Analyze the structure of the social network of mothers/caregivers during the hospitalization of their child. Method: Qualitative study in a pediatric hospital in Rio de Janeiro. Ten mothers/caregivers were interviewed from February to December 2015. A theoretical-methodological framework and social network analysis by Lia Sanicola were used. Results: The primary networks were medium-sized, with strong bonds, particularly the networks for children being hospitalized for the first time. They were more numerous than those for children who had been previously hospitalized. The following secondary networks were mentioned: formal, third sector and market. No mixed and informal networks were mentioned. Conclusion: Extended and frequent hospital stays of children affect the dynamics of social networks. Over the course of hospital stays, they become smaller, but the bonds within them are strengthened. The primary healthcare network was not mentioned, due to the fact that the children had been diagnosed with chronic diseases since birth.