Abstract
This chapter aims to present a research grounded in the bioecology of human development that analyzed shelter institutions through the perceptions of children aged from 7 to 12 years. The methodology focused on documental research, ecological engagement, and reflexive interviews associated with simultaneous photographic records made by seven children of two governmental institutions located in the south of Brazil. The main purpose of data collection was to listen to children’s voices and develop a dialogue taking into account their life adversities and experiences while being apart from their families. These methodological strategies respect children’s integrity and social, moral, and cultural values. Data analysis was based on the principles of grounded theory with the support of Atlas.ti software. Results showed that children perceive institutions mainly as a place of discipline, the imposition of rules, and of being deprived of affection, reciprocity, and an inadequate power balance as well as a setting for ambivalence in respect of the workers’ educational practices.