Structural Characteristics and Functions of Significant Social Networks of Women Who Have Stayed in Shelters

Abstract The aim of this qualitative study was to understand the structural characteristics and functions of the significant social networks of women subjected to violence, after their stay in a shelter. Six women admitted to a shelter in southern Brazil participated in the study. Semi-structured interviews and Network Maps were used for data collection. Data were organized and analyzed according to Grounded Theory, using the software Atlas.ti 7.0. Medium and large networks were found, with a high degree of affective proximity and the predominance of family members. The main functions were Emotional Support, and Cognitive Guidance and Advice. Participants were considerably empowered by reactivating their significant social networks and resignifying the quality of their relational bond with them.

摘要 本质性研究旨在探究遭受暴力的女性在入住庇护所后，其重要社会网络的结构特征与功能。共有6名入住巴西南部某庇护所的女性参与本研究。研究采用半结构化访谈与社会网络图谱开展数据采集工作，依据扎根理论（Grounded Theory），借助Atlas.ti 7.0软件对数据进行整理与分析。研究发现，参与者的社会网络多为中型或大型，情感亲密度较高且家庭成员占比居主导地位。其核心功能包括情感支持、认知引导与建议。通过重新激活自身的重要社会网络，并重新诠释与这些网络成员的关系联结质量，参与者的赋权水平得到显著提升。