Abstract
This descriptive qualitative study was developed to describe the actions of a therapeutic residential service regarding the rights to equality and freedom of its residents. Participant observation and life histories were used for the data collection and inductive thematic analysis was the method of analysis. The residence has internal dynamics permeated by friendship and by the exercising of the rights of equality and freedom; the residents feel welcomed and protected in this environment. However, it is still necessary to overcome the social prejudice that deprives them of equality and freedom in the social environment. Finally, it is important to work with society on the need to perceive people with mental disorders as subjects with rights and duties.