Families in Latin America from a Social Work perspective

This paper analyzes the contributions to family studies in Latin America from the perspective of Social Work, based on a systematic documentary review of articles published in six disciplinary journals. The methodological proposal identifies three categories for its organization: family practices, conflicts, and care. Despite the general call to understand the family from a multicultural and diverse perspective, studies show that families in LA still construct their dynamics and relationships according to heteropatriarchal patterns, generating gender inequalities and violence. Social intervention with families focuses on minimizing the risks of social problems and contributing to developing empowerment and agency in the family unit. Health, education, and domestic violence are the most frequently addressed topics in the revised scientific production, leaving a potential void of currently controversial issues. Although Social Work has optimal methodological tools to approach and understand the realities of families, and its theoretical and empirical academic production provides an enriching discussion for professional work, it is necessary to incorporate the gender approach in the research-intervention process, generate alternatives for social transformation, focus another guideline of social action towards public policy and re-conceptualize the diversity of families from everyday life.