Ser mulher e participar de grupo educativo em saúde na comunidade : motivações e expectativas

Abstract

This qualitative and descriptive study, conducted in 2009 with 11women from a community in Fortaleza, aimed to understand what it means to be a woman in present-day society, to learn women’s concept of health and identify their motivation sand expectations in the community with regard to participating in an educational group. Information was collected in a focus group and analyzed using content analysis. The results showed that being a woman is regarded positively, although it is still difficult to reconcile family and employment. Their concept of health is closely linked to caring and taking care of oneself. Their expectations for participation in the group were positive, and revealed learning, the forging of new links and leisure. The formation of women’s groups in the community, with a view to promoting these subjects’ health, should be encouraged.