SOCIAL VULNERABILITIES OF CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS IN INSTITUTIONAL CARE FOR ADOPTION IN THE LIGHT OF SCIENTIFIC EVIDENCE

Abstract

The social vulnerabilities experienced by children and adolescents in institutional care for adoption represent a complex phenomenon shaped by historical, structural, and institutional processes that affect human development and the guarantee of rights. This study aims to critically analyze social vulnerabilities associated with institutional care, based on theoretical frameworks from social sciences and collective health. This is a reflective study grounded in a critical analysis of scientific literature, Brazilian official data, and classical and contemporary theoretical contributions. The analytical categories were developed using Minayo’s Thematic Analysis, conducted in three stages: pre-analysis, material exploration, and treatment and interpretation of results. Five analytical categories emerged: social vulnerability and weakening of bonds; human development and institutionalization; social capital and inequalities; social invisibility and voice; and institutions, power, and control. The findings indicate that institutionalization is not the primary cause of vulnerability, but rather a consequence of broader social processes such as structural poverty, violence, social exclusion, and weaknesses in intersectoral public policies. Prolonged institutional care may negatively affect psychosocial development, especially when stable affective bonds and opportunities for social participation are lacking. It is concluded that addressing these vulnerabilities requires integrated public policies, strengthening family and community ties, institutional practices that promote autonomy and social recognition, and the qualified listening of children and adolescents as subjects of rights.