ScholarWorks > HHS > Social Work > JSSW > Vol. 29 > Iss. 4 (2002)
Article Title
Not in My Social World: A Cultural Analysis of Media Representations, Contested Spaces, and Sympathy for the Homeless
Abstract
The social constructionist approach offers conceptual tools that may augment social workers' persuasive powers and problem solving capacities. In this case study, I examine a newspaper campaign to cast the homeless in negative terms and justify the closing of a shelter. Findings are presented as seven themes used by competing claims-makers. Each constructs a different depiction of the homeless, of homelessness, and of preferred solutions. Linkages between community memberships and favored problem definitions are identified. I conclude with suggestions for how "intelligent social reconstruction" might help social workers function as sympathy brokers for the vulnerable. (Key words: homelessness, NIMBY, mass media, constructionist approaches to social problems).
Recommended Citation
Forte, James A.
(2002)
"Not in My Social World: A Cultural Analysis of Media Representations, Contested Spaces, and Sympathy for the Homeless,"
The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 29:
Iss.
4, Article 9.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.2852
Available at:
https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol29/iss4/9
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