BETWEEN PRACTICES AND MEANINGS: THE WORK OF PSYCHOLOGISTS AT CRAS AND THE CHALLENGES OF BASIC SOCIAL PROTECTION

Abstract

The Unified Social Assistance System (SUAS) serves families in situations of social vulnerability, with the Social Assistance Reference Center (CRAS) as the basic level of protection. This research seeks to understand the work of psychologists at the CRAS in Santa Luzia, Minas Gerais. A semi-structured interview technique was used with the psychologists working at the CRAS, aiming to identify the meanings of this work through Laurence Bardin's Content Analysis. The results highlighted appreciation for the work, but revealed challenges such as inadequate infrastructure, high demand, and difficulties in intersectoral coordination. Activities include reception, psychosocial care, and group sessions, with limited user participation and a lack of specific training. Despite the positive impact, greater public investment and professional development are essential to strengthen psychosocial work and promote citizenship and autonomy among users.