QUALITATIVE STUDIES IN RESIDENTIAL CARE FOR CHILDREN AND FAMILIES. SOCIAL PSYCHOLOGY ENGAGING WITH THE WORK WITH VULNERABLE CHILDREN AND FAMILIES

Traditionally explored primarily through quantitative methods in Developmental Psychology, residential care for children and families (RCCF) presents a complex social and organizational context that can be investigated using situated qualitative tools from various psychological perspectives, with Social Psychology leading the way. Drawing on a range of different theoretical frameworks, including Bronfenbrenner’s ecological theory, family systemic approach, and Cultural Psychology, and employing diverse methodological approaches such as Thematic Analysis, ethno-CA, focus groups, case studies, and family sculptures, this symposium aims to highlight the inherent socio-cultural dimension of residential care. This includes living in groups, working in groups, delivering psycho-educational interventions in group settings, and interacting with different groups both within and outside the facilities, before and after the intervention. As a result, our goal is to critically analyze the intricate deinstitutionalization process that these institutions must navigate. In this endeavor, Social Psychology’s qualitative approaches can play a pivotal role in reconfiguring RCCF interventions and processes, delivering situated training, and co-constructing joint research processes aimed at the social inclusion of vulnerable children, families, and care leavers.