THE DEVELOPMENT OF ADOPTIVE PARENTHOOD IN A SUPPORT GROUP: AN EXPERIENCE REPORT IN THE AMAZONIAN CONTEXT

Abstract

The current article analyses the contributions from a support group to the development of adoptive parenthood and the psychosocial strengthening of the families involved in the adoptive processes in the Amazonian context. This is a experience report of qualitative research created by experiences developed during a supervised psychology internship in a civil society organization focused in monitoring prospective adoptive parents, foster families, children and teenagers in the State of Amazonas. These reflections were drawn through a participant observation in group meetings, recreational activities, lectures, round table discussions and reflective notes produced during the internship. the results highlighted that the support group served as an important source of emotional support, psychosocial mediation and the development of adoptive parenting, favoring the exchange of experiences, the process of anxieties related to family life and the formation of support networks among participants. The conducted activities with children and teenagers also demonstrated the importance of play areas as spaces for socializing, emotional expression and strengthening emotional bonds. It can be concluded that the support group in question serves as an important means of providing a welcoming environment, a listening ear and emotional support to families in the Amazonian context.