CONSIDERATIONS ABOUT THE MENTAL HEALTH OF INCARCERATED WOMEN

Abstract

The Brazilian prison system, regulated by the Penal Execution Law of 1984, is designed to re-socialize prisoners, but faces serious problems of overcrowding and infrastructure, failing to reintegrate them into society. This bibliographical study focuses on the situation of incarcerated women, who, due to gender determinants, experience psychological suffering that is aggravated by institutionalization, whether due to separation from their children, unemployment or social disapproval of their behaviour. Women who face situations of social vulnerability within capitalist determinants become more susceptible to institutionalization, bringing with them psychological suffering that is determined by this system. To talk about the mental health of women prisoners is to consider economic, social and structural factors that place this section of society on the edge, making it necessary to take a critical look at these stigmas, seeking public policies and institutional improvements for their full reintegration into society.