Seeking the meaning of reaching adolescence in a shelter institution

Objective: To reveal the meaning of adolescence in a shelter institution, through the main reasons that led to this experience; to inquire about the representation of the family and the care before the institutionalized living and to identify what are the expectations of life of the adolescents in relation to the future. Methods: This is a descriptive and exploratory study with a qualitative approach, in which the focal group technique was used. Data were analyzed according to the Collective Subject Discourse. Results: The research revealed the following central ideas: 1) The private world of shelter institutions; 2) Representation of family X care under the eyes of adolescents and 3) Perspectives, dreams and desires regarding the future. Conclusion: There is evidence of the need for new debates about the adolescents' experience of difficulties in relation to the universe they are facing