Theoretical and methodological reflections on interventions and care in the field of mental health

Abstract

This article presents theoretical and methodological reflections by members of the Center of Interdisciplinary Studies in Mental Health (NISAM/ISC/UFBA). The theoretical and methodological approaches are based on fieldwork and analysis of empirical data from recent research conducted in psychosocial care centers. The reflections draw upon authors in hermeneutics and interpretive anthropology. Using studies and research that provide evaluative investigations in the mental health field, the theoretical and methodological framework adopted by NISAM adopts an ethnographic methodology. It employs a data triangulation strategy based on evidence from the multiple viewpoints of distinct social actors, including users, relatives, professionals, managers, and community members, who are involved in constructing mental health services and networks.