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Bart W. Miles, PhD and Debra M. Hernandez Jozefowicz-Simbeni, MSW, PhD. School of Social Work, Wayne State University, 4756 Cass Avenue Rm 311, Detroit, MI 48202, (313) 577-4434, bmiles@wayne.edu
In the present study, an ecological systems framework was applied to explore protective factors associated with the social contexts of peer groups, social networks, and social service agencies that contribute to resiliency in homeless youth. The authors analyzed existing qualitative data on homeless youth from four research studies. The data from these studies consisted of focus groups, interviews, and participant observation methods. A major element identified in all four data sets was the tremendous resiliency amongst homeless youth. Many of the homeless youth were creative, intelligent, colloquial, and mature. Individually the youth demonstrated a care and concern for others, tremendous skill in meeting their basic needs, and an optimistic outlook on their personal potential. Social networks were a fundamental feature of homeless youth’s resilience. The youth identified peer social networks as essential to the ability to meet needs, avoid negative consequences (such as arrests or harassment), gain companionship, and achieve social well-being. Peer networks were often developed through group identification, informal familial networks, or by other interest affiliations (e.g., drug use). The youth also identified social services agencies as essential elements in their resiliency. Agencies that fostered positive self-esteem, future goal attainment, and demonstrated a belief in the youth contributed to their resilience. Agencies also tended to emphasize education, career/job training and placement, therapeutic service, and unconditional positive regard for the homeless youth. Recommendations include future interventions that support the resiliency characteristics of homeless youth in multiple social contexts. Limitations of the study and suggestions for future research are offered.
Learning Objectives: By participating in this session/poster, participants will
Keywords: Homelessness, Youth
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.