The purpose of this study is to identify and analyze representations users of a psychosocial care center construct about psychiatric treatment. Interviews were held with 11 individuals at a Psychosocial Care Center. Data were analyzed through content analysis, according to Bardin, using the Moscovician social representation theory as a methodological-theoretical reference framework. Data analysis allowed us to define three categories. The first category - treatment is to be medicated- contains issues like medication as psychiatric treatment, the effects of treatment, various professionals involved and their participation in treatment. The second category - treatment is to be cared for (or not) - was outlined as: care in psychiatric treatment, violence and closed institutions. The third category - treatment is to be active- was based on: treatment and occupational therapy, psychiatric treatment and work. We concluded that the representations about psychiatric treatment are closely linked to the use of medication and to the physician as the precursor of the treatment.
mental health; social psychology; nursing; deinstitutionalization