Uncovering the presenteism in the daily life of a family living with a relativedepending on physical care

Abstract

Family life and its intra and extra-family relationships modify radically when the situation of illness of a member is faced. The aim of this study is to present apprehended elements of presenteism, with their aspects of otherness and complementarities that participate or are present in the daily relationships dynamics of a family living with an adult relative depending on physical care. For the investigation a qualitative approach was chosen according to Michel Maffesoli’s theoretical-methodological referential, which uses the formism as a methodological lever. Data were collected in the home of four families within a period of six months, using the interview technique and focal group. Results revealed that the presenteism in the relationship, when in coexistence with a relative depending on physical care, is altered and it is recovered, in a movement of construction of the present that does not discard the signs of the past.