“Group of men” as a health promotion device: singular experiences in care practices

Abstract

The “Group of Men” is a health promotion space developed in a Brazilian Basic Health Unity. The study sought to identify and understand the context of the production of care practices and the participation of men-users in the Group, through ethnography. After systematizing and analyzing the empirical data, two thematic categories emerged: communication space (an opening to the ‘exchange of experiences’ that was not reduced to pathology-focused conversation) and; development of the bond (relationship between users and the health professionals: proximity and freedom to express themselves, pointing out the advantages of the link for men’s care). The results indicated that the power of the “Group of Men” resided in the investment in ‘health work processes’ involved with collective care strategies, ‘meetings’ that favored reception, qualified listening and bonding.

Men’s health; Health promotion; Care practices; Integrality; Welcoming