Abstract

This work explores the perspectives of directors, educators, children and adolescents institutionalized under protection measures, regarding the principle of participation and the right to be heard in the context of a health emergency. The study has a qualitative approach, instrumental single case design. 21 focused interviews were carried out in 4 residences in the Los Ríos Region, Chile, and their contents were analyzed. The perspectives about the right to be heard and participation are linked to the organizational characteristics of the residences; highly structuring, precarious and with high responsibility in the care of children and adolescents. Although the rights are known and valued by the actors, the application is difficult since it challenges building a sensitive and flexible relationship with children and adolescents in an adverse residential context. © 2025 Revista Latinoamericana de Ciencias Sociales. All rights reserved.