Objective.

To describe the social views of a group of university students studying health, regarding ex-combatants from armed rebel groups in Colombia and their reintegration process.

Method.

A qualitative study with a procedural approach from the social representations theory was performed. The participants of the study were 20 health students. The data was collected through two techniques: free association, to develop the semantic components of the views expressed by participants, and semi-structured individual interviews, in order to identify the dimensions of information, attitude, and the representational field.

Results.

The study discovered a frequent prevalence of prejudices against ex-combatants and low prospects of change. A positive perception regarding reintegration of the ex-combatants and the influence of the media regarding the quality and accessibility of the information about the subjects of representation was identified.

Conclusion:

The findings suggest that there are difficulties in the inclusion of this societal group by the participants. Also, they expressed discrimination and positive expectations related to the reintegration process.

        · abstract in Spanish | Portuguese     · text in Spanish     · Spanish ( pdf )