The creative and symbolization potential of children from two slums, Turano and Chapéu Mangueira in Rio de Janeiro was the jumping-off point for this research that proposes an investigation of the structure and subjectification strategies presented in this often violent and hostile socio-cultural context. We used cases and experiences lived out at the NGO Casa da Árvore in order to develop this study and to create a portrait of the reality revealed within the slums and in the children s play. The goal of this dissertation is to investigate how a subject that lives constantly in a reality where fear, terror and helplessness are constantly present in an intense and potentially traumatic way needs to be considered. We work with the hypothesis that in this traumatic environment, the existing community and affective ties alleviate the deconstructive potential. With its hospitality and empathy, the community provides the necessary refuge to propitiate a healthy development. We believe, however, that the excess of destitution of the environment can result in the early maturity of the child in an attempt to cure, to wisely care for themselves.