[Learning through diabetes operative groups: an ethnographical approach].

This work has emerged from one of the core themes of research undergone in my masters' course at the Federal University of Minas Gerais - School of Nursing. In order to understand group learning, we used the theoretical references of Pichon-Riviére. According to this author, learning is an indicator of uttermost importance in group processes. Through process interactions, a learning mechanism unfolds allowing participants to mutually appropriate reality, share thoughts and knowledge. In most statements, interviewees have highlighted that the group allows them to learn how to deal with diabetes. The core theme, "Group as a space for learning and transformation", reveals some of the meanings and understandings that have translated the experience lived by participants. This is an ethnographical study conducted with thirteen diabetics who participate in group sessions at a Basic Health Unit of the Municipality of Belo Horizonte, Minas Gerais State, Brazil. Data was collected through semi-structured interview, participant observation and documental analysis. Data analysis was oriented by Bardin's content analysis method.