La cronicidad en el marco de los servicios sociales: aportaciones para su discusión

Abstract

In this article we are starting from a research work in progress which is carried out in the social services of a Spanish municipality about the population in situations of chronicity. On the basis of that research we want to point out a set of contributions on this phenomenon and the context in which it occurs. Firstly, we suggest the desirability of making a theoretical effort to provide content to the term chronicity, since this is a concept too empty within the social sphere, and therefore it has little technical value. As a hypothesis, we propose its use as a conceptual category, in order to integrate the various manifestations and typologies associated with the phenomenon. Then, we take into account the treatment of chronicity in the field of health, and we underline the interest in certain proactive lines of work, whose guidelines can be significant for the social sphere. Finally, we support the need to deepen on the scientific basis of the interventions that take place within the social services - in this case regarding the phenomenon of chronicity - as a strategic way which enable to overcome the reactive dominant actions in this field.