From the stigmatizing disease to resignification of living on the streets

Abstract

This qualitative study used the method of oral history – thematic modality – aimed to comprehend existing relationships in the process of resignification of life on the street from the diagnosis of a socially stigmatizing disease. It was developed in a Shelter Center, with five homeless people, who have a socially stigmatizing disease. From the analysis, two categories emerged: The stigmatizing disease; Resignifying life. We inferred that to have a stigmatizing disease, prejudice and fear contributes with the frailty of social bonds, it broadens personal vulnerabilities and chances to start and/or perpetuate life on the street. The self-knowledge about the disease and the reflection about one’s own finitude contribute with resignification of life. The symbolisms involved in each of the discussed diseases are little sensitive to public polices interventions for this matter.