The Importance of Tenderness in Andean Social Contexts Affected by Poverty

Abstract

The aspects analyzed in the article are the result of an analysis combined with the experience and experiences in the professional and civic practice of the authors in Andean social environments in poverty in Peru where inequalities, injustices and social exclusion are evident. It is proposed that tenderness should be a conceptual imperative and a daily practice in personal, family and community interaction since it is not only an expression of feelings, but a constructive force to face adversity and suffering. Programs, strategies and public policies for social and human development, as well as for attention to children, adolescents and vulnerable social groups, should include it directly or transversally in their actions, whether in educational institutions, grassroots social organizations, protection centers, defense of rights, etc. since experiencing tenderness in human interaction and coexistence will contribute to the development of self-esteem, confidence and affective-social-emotional skills as it is a restorative and empowering force for well-being, resilience and greater coping skills in adult life. For this purpose, it can be applied in aspects such as parenting style, an inducer for healthy interaction and coexistence, as an educational approach model, a strategy for raising awareness and motivation in community contexts and, for psychotherapeutic purposes.