The 131st Annual Meeting (November 15-19, 2003) of APHA

Abstract #57685

Kathleen M. May, DNSc, RN, School of Nursing, The University of Texas at Austin, 1700 Red River, Austin, TX 78701-1499, 512-232-4719, kmay@mail.nur.utexas.edu

Purpose: The purpose of this grounded theory study was to describe sheltered homeless women’s perceptions of their process of preparing for life outside the shelter. Problem Statement: Residence in a shelter is temporary respite. There is little reported research on women’s perceptions of the process by which they help themselves to prepare for life outside the shelter. Research Question: What are sheltered homeless women’s perceptions of the process by which they prepare for life outside the shelter? Sample and Setting: The purposive sample consisted of one focus group of short term residents (n=8), one focus group of long term residents (n=6), and 19 individually interviewed short term and long term residents of a faith-based transitional living shelter in the Southwest U.S. who were female, 18 or older, and spoke English. Method, Data Collection, Data Analysis: In this grounded theory study, using demographic questions and a semi-structured interview guide, the PI conducted focus groups and individual interviews with women shelter residents. A university IRB approved the study. Data analysis was the constant comparative method. Results: The process of Learning to Live a Different Life included crying out for help, using resources, learning to love myself, getting on the right track with God, trying strategies, and hoping. The process involved interaction with shelter residents and staff, family and friends, staff of other agencies, and God, leading to hope for a different life. Implications: Women’s perceptions provide a basis for public health nursing and other professional interventions to support the process through partnering with women to promote their health and well being.

Learning Objectives:

At the conclusion of this presentation, the participant will be able to:
• Articulate the process homeless sheltered women describe as learning to live a different life.
• Develop strategies to support homeless sheltered women's efforts to live a different life after leaving the shelter.

Keywords: Homeless Health Care, Public Health

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.