Children and adolescents' right to live in a family environment vs. the institutionalization's negative psychosocial impact in Mexico

El derecho a vivir en el entorno familiar de Niñas, Niños y Adolescentes frente al impacto psicosocial negativo de la institucionalización en México

This research work studies the negative psychosocial impact brought about by the protective measure known as institutionalization on children and adolescents in Mexico. In such a circumstance, the State must evaluate, prior to action, the psychosocial impact of removing children and adolescents from their family environment through institutionalization. Therefore, this work highlights the importance for children and adolescent of their right to live in their family environment, as well as alternatives to guarantee their rights without resorting to removal. To conclude, some factors to be considered by authorities so as to establish the psychosocial impact prior to the exercise of this protective measure are suggested, as well as prevention and action strategies to minimize psychosocial impacts.