Social representations of key members of the Butia Palm Groves network regarding health

Abstract

Introduction: This study aimed to describe the social representations of key members of the Butia Palm Groves Network in relation to health. Methodology: Qualitative study with a descriptive approach, whose data collection was carried out from March to April / 2020. Twenty key members of the Butia Palm Groves Network participated in the research. Nine semi-structured interviews were conducted in person and self-administered questionnaires were sent via email to 11 participants, due to the social isolation imposed by the pandemic of COVID-19. For data treatment, the theoretical framework of Serge Moscovici's Theory of Social Representations and the thematic content analysis by Laurence Bardin were used. Results: For the members of the Butia Palm Groves Network, health has to do with the spiritual, psychological, balance of the soul, mind, being centered, because the person is a holistic being. They express that health is the balance of organic, physical, biological and chemical functions, which involves the whole body, exercising, taking care of food, spooning the foot, eating the things that are produced without losing vital force, drinking water, having an adequate weight without pain. Also, health is related to well-being, planting health at home, being happy, with your energies. Conclusion: Respondents exposed that butiá is good for health, being close to the plant calming and brings pleasure, and this exchange with nature influences health, occupies the head, works as a therapy.

Key words: Environment. Theory of Social Representations. Networks.