Há mortos mais vivos que muitos vivos: avós não conhecidas e identidade de netas

Abstract

This study aimed to understand the presence of memories about grandmothers not physically known in the identity constitution of their granddaughters. It consists of a qualitative study, with a multiple case study design, as well as self-ethnographic, based on an approach using an systemic epistemology, where semi-structured interviews were conducted with six individuals, separetely, in a convenience sample, being three granddaughters of ages ranging from 35 to 50 years and their respective fathers, mothers or other affectionate figures. The interviews were analyzed from the identification of recurring categories in the interviewees' discourse, based on thematic analysis. The interviews were transcribed and underwent procedures for reading and exploration of the material, in addition to be grouped into dominant and secondary themes, i. e., of greater and lesser appearance or prominence. The main results of the research show that the perception of the identity of the granddaughter's role in adulthood is shaped through intergenerational transfer and the internalization of norms and behavior patterns of parents that were passed on by grandmothers. The objectives were significantly met; It has been observed that the shadow trajectory, a concept that has been extrapolated here to focus on the analysis of transgenerational experience, evokes the notion of 'symbolic competences' proposing a new perspective on the use of symbolic resources by the person in transitions, in particular. their everyday social and cultural places. Designates a set of complex skills and abilities, allowing a person to use cultural elements as resources for symbolic elaboration needed for any additional meaning making, identity transformation, new understanding building, or acquisition of skills necessary for these transitions.