The Impact of Social Networks: Moving On from Homelessness

1. The Impact of Social Networks: • Moving On from Homelessness Shan-Yi Bong, Rachel Gregory, Domonic Hung and Jiahui Ren London School of Economics • Objective: • To consider the social dimensions of homelessness, examining the impacts and changing nature of social networks on the reintegration process. • Background: • Most research and policy tackling homelessness largely focuses on economic influences. • Within the existing literature little research has been conducted on the friendship networks of homeless people (Fitzpatrick et. al 2000). There is some recognition that there is a community on the street and that homeless people depend on these friendships (Wasserman 2010). • Methodology: • Qualitative research design and thematic analysis • 8 semi-structured interviews with residents from a homeless hostel Results: 1. Previous Relationships: Lack of support and were difficult to maintain once participants became homeless. “You can only put up with stuff so long” – Brian • 2. Street Relationships: • Participants had experienced a mix of strong and weak social networks. But social isolationwas common and often a conscious choice. • “No, I wouldn’t say friendships – acquaintances, yeah, but no, no real friendships yeah.” – Dave • “So one minute you’d be swearing your undying love for a pal on the street and the next minute he could have a knife at your throat.” – Gary • 3. Hostel Relationships: • Social networks changed upon entering the hostel, expanding for most participants. Participants ‘drifted’ from street networks, and some were reluctant to form new relationships, but these tended to be more supportive, especially with hostel staff. • “Basically I keep myself to myself… cause I just want to sort my life out, get my kids back.” – Cathy • “And they give you solutions… and they remind you that your friendships were actually unhealthy for you at the time.” – Gary 4. Future Relationships: Most participants were keen to form new relationships and were confident about the prospect of doing so. “No, I had lots of friends at school.” – Anne Discussion: Due to the heterogeneous sample, the variety of responses obtained showed there is no common form of social networks for all homeless people. However, some common themes emerged. • Impact: • Findings offer new insights into the complex role social networks play in the reintegration process. • Supportive relationships are beneficial where resources are available but remain uncommon until relationships with support staff and groups are developed in hostels. • Apart from social networks, some participants identified self-determination, personal characteristics and professional helpas more important factors. • As most participants were current hostel residents, a longitudinal study would be desirable to track their progress in the future. • Dramatic change: • Networks did not remain constant for any participant. • The composition and nature of networks changed throughout the process. • Participants’ perceptions towards networks changed. Street relationships were perceived as less valuable and carried little emotional weight. References: Fitzpatrick et al. (2000) Single Homelessness: An Overview of Research in Britain, The Policy Press: Bristol, Wasserman, J. A. (2010) At Home on the Street, Lynne Reinner Publishers Inc