Document Type
Poster Session
Department
Social Work
Faculty Mentor
Jennifer First, PhD
Abstract
The homeless population is a diverse community with many unique complexities. Prior research has identified that while there are homeless services that exist for general needs, women experiencing homelessness have unique needs that require specialized care due to the complexity of their experiences. The intention of this study was to gather insight into the challenges and protective factors among women experiencing homelessness. Researchers conducted a thematic analysis of eight in-person, semi-structured qualitative interviews in an urban community in the northeast with women who have been experiencing homelessness for at least 30 days. Common themes of challenges included: negative childhood experiences; isolation from peers; and family, sex work and trafficking and substance use. Common themes of protective factors included: relationships with case management providers; isolation from unwanted behaviors, support groups; and employment. This research is intended to benefit and improve the delivery of social services supporting women experiencing homelessness and to inform future practice for service providers.
Open Access?
1
Examining the Challenges and Protective Factors of Women Experiencing Homelessness
The homeless population is a diverse community with many unique complexities. Prior research has identified that while there are homeless services that exist for general needs, women experiencing homelessness have unique needs that require specialized care due to the complexity of their experiences. The intention of this study was to gather insight into the challenges and protective factors among women experiencing homelessness. Researchers conducted a thematic analysis of eight in-person, semi-structured qualitative interviews in an urban community in the northeast with women who have been experiencing homelessness for at least 30 days. Common themes of challenges included: negative childhood experiences; isolation from peers; and family, sex work and trafficking and substance use. Common themes of protective factors included: relationships with case management providers; isolation from unwanted behaviors, support groups; and employment. This research is intended to benefit and improve the delivery of social services supporting women experiencing homelessness and to inform future practice for service providers.
