MILITARY POLICE THAT WELCOMES: EQUINE-ASSISTED THERAPY ACTIONS AS BUILDING BRIDGES IN THE RELATIONSHIP WITH MANAUS SOCIETY

Abstract

This article analyzes the impact of the equine-assisted therapy service developed by the Amazonas State Military Police (PMAM) as a strategy for approaching and welcoming the society of Manaus. Based on the premise that contemporary public security requires community-based and humanized policing models, the research investigates how the therapeutic use of horses by the corporation transcends the health sphere, acting as an instrument for public relations and the mitigation of stigmas. The theoretical foundation covers the history of equine-assisted therapy and the doctrines of proximity policing. It is concluded that the program acts as an institutional "bridge," humanizing the figure of the military police officer for the families served and strengthening the social capital between the PMAM and the city of Manaus.