Caminhos de transformação

: o papel do educador social no desenvolvimento pessoal e social do antigo combatente

Abstract

This work corresponds to an academic dissertation entitled ‘Paths of Transformation: The Role of the Social Educator in the Personal and Social Development of Former Combatants’, leading to the award of a master’s degree in educational sciences with a specialisation in Social Pedagogy, from the Catholic University of Porto in the Faculty of Education and Psychology. Social Pedagogy serves as a theoretical reference, as a Science of Education that focuses on human and social development, to understand the role of the Social Educator in the process of Personal and Social Development of Former Combatants. Thus, three main objectives were established: to identify and analyse the institutions for former combatants that have support teams for their personal and social development; the socio-pedagogical practices of these technical teams with former combatants; and the perceptions of the different actors involved. From an empirical point of view, we opted for a qualitative methodology, based on documentary research and interviews with stakeholders. This methodological approach, using different techniques and interviewing different actors at different levels, made it possible to cross-reference and complement information, favoring a more solid analysis of the reality of social intervention and the perceptions of the various people involved, giving the study an analytical depth that increased the validity and understanding of the phenomena observed. The data collected and analyse highlights and reinforces the relevance of the Social Educator's intervention in the lives of former combatants. This professional has the ability to offer a close and personalized intervention, respecting the individuality of each person and using fundamental tools and techniques such as empathy and active listening, which are crucial when working with these people.

Date of Award	14 Feb 2025
Original language	Portuguese
Awarding Institution	Universidade Católica Portuguesa
Supervisor	Ana Cláudia Rodrigues Camões (Supervisor)