Perspectives of Employed People Experiencing Homelessness of Self and Being Homeless: Challenging Socially Constructed Perceptions and Stereotypes

Authors

Micheal L. Shier, University of Calgary
Marion E. Jones, University of Regina
John R. Graham, University of Calgary

Keywords

Homelessness, service delivery, employment, perceptions, social work

Abstract

In a study that sought to identify the multiple factors resulting in homelessness from the perspective of 65 individuals in Calgary, Alberta, Canada who were both employed and homeless, we found that participants' perceptions of being homeless emerged as a major theme which impacts their entry to and exit from homelessness. Four sub-themes related to these perceptions were identified: (1) perceptions of self and situation; (2) impact of being homeless on self-reflection; (3) aspects of hope to consider; and (4) perspectives on having a permanent residence. Analytically, these findings help challenge present stereotypes about homelessness and usefully inform social service delivery organizations.

Recommended Citation

Shier, Micheal L.; Jones, Marion E.; and Graham, John R. (2010) "Perspectives of Employed People Experiencing Homelessness of Self and Being Homeless: Challenging Socially Constructed Perceptions and Stereotypes," The Journal of Sociology & Social Welfare: Vol. 37: Iss. 4, Article 3.
DOI: https://doi.org/10.15453/0191-5096.3559
Available at: https://scholarworks.wmich.edu/jssw/vol37/iss4/3