Revitalization Project of Light District, in the City of São Paulo (Brazil): Some Notes Based on Interviews with its Habitants

Abstract

This article aims to provide some psychological reflexes of a revitalization project entitled "New Light", a district located in the central region of São Paulo / Brazil, through brief sampling of the opinions and feelings expressed by their inhabitants. The study was conducted through qualitative approach and use of descriptive, exploratory and empirical methods. Initially, the research involved searching and reading literature on the history of the neighborhood and its institutions, demographic characteristics and life habits of the population of the city center and in a second step, conducting interviews with residents and workers region and linked to neighborhood people. In this context, the problem ensejador the study was the observation and collection of information on the mode of being, living and socializing in the neighborhood to be modified as well as the exploration of different expectations of its inhabitants as the potential impacts of this project. The theoretical framework was based on the paradox between social instability and psychological aspects of dignity, citizenship and social inclusion of residents of the Luz neighborhood in the face of the project "New Light". The analysis suggests that there is a direct relationship between the general manifestation of feelings of appreciation to the neighborhood and its history, and the insecurity of a confrontational coexistence with the homeless, especially users of "crack", clearly indicating the desire to which they may receive attention and support for their social reintegration.