A critical review on autonomy and dependence: a contribution to an ethics of care

Authors

  • Stella Crivellenti Vilar Universidade de São Paulo
  • Katia de Souza Amorim
  • Carla Guanaes-Lorenzi

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.7213/psicolargum.41.115.AO02

Abstract

The social discourse of care raises questions in various domains, from social and political contexts to the micropolitics of interactions. Concerning this issue, we bring a discussion about the ethical positioning of the care partner, who may adopt an authoritarian attitude towards the person they care for, considered devoid of autonomy. This principle limits the cared person's possibilities under a condition of dependence. Approaching this issue critically and according to a path that intertwines Social Constructionism and Phenomenology, we proceeded to a reflection aiming to contribute to an epistemological discussion on dependence and autonomy, especially in care for older people with Dementia. We conclude that there are functional possibilities for the person who is cared for to act autonomously. This autonomy may emerge through interpersonal bonds with the caregivers and their responsiveness, mainly through embodiment rather than verbal and rational language.

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Author Biographies

Katia de Souza Amorim

Profa. Titular da Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto da Universidade de São Paulo, coordenadora do CINDEDI (Centro de Investigações sobre desenvolvimento humano e educação infantil). 

Carla Guanaes-Lorenzi

Professora Associada do Departamento de Psicologia da Faculdade de Filosofia, Ciências e Letras de Ribeirão Preto (USP)

Published

2023-12-02

How to Cite

Vilar, S. C., Amorim, K. de S., & Guanaes-Lorenzi, C. (2023). A critical review on autonomy and dependence: a contribution to an ethics of care . Psicologia Argumento, 41(115). https://doi.org/10.7213/psicolargum.41.115.AO02