Resumen

ARAUJO DE MORAIS, Normanda; KOLLER, Silvia Helena  y  RAFFAELLI, Marcela. Social networks, stressful events and maladjustment in the lives of vulnerable children and adolescents. Univ. Psychol. [online]. 2012, vol.11, n.3, pp.779-791. ISSN 1657-9267.

Two groups of at risk children and adolescents (N = 98; 11-18 years) were compared in terms of social networks, stressful events, and maladjustment and the moderating effects of social network characteristics (size and proximity) on the association between stressful life events and maladjustment evaluated. G1 consists of street adolescents and G2 of those living with their families. Data were collected using the ecological engagement method and standardized instruments. Results indicated group differences in characteristics of social networks: street adolescents (G1) had more contacts and proximity with friends/neighbors/relatives than youth in family situations (G2). Street adolescents also reported higher levels of stressful events and maladjustment. Family proximity moderated the association between stressful life events and maladjustment, suggesting that social programs should be provided to strengthen vulnerable families.

Palabras clave : Social Network; Protective Factors; Social Vulnerability; Family; Cross-Sectional Study; Social Psychology; Quantitative Research.

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