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"STRUGGLING FOR SURVIVAL IN THE STREETS": EXAMINING HOMELESSNESS IN PORTUGAL

S. M. Ferreira

Abstract

This paper specifically addresses the key elements that constitute the subphase 1.2 “struggling for survival in the streets” of the original grounded Theory “surviving the streets”. The first section addresses the particularities that comprise each phase of the GT. The specific features of phase 1 are presented in more detail. The second section of the papers summarizes the research method, specifically: (i) characterization of participants [homeless (n = 38), professionals (n = 47) and previously homeless (n = 11)], (ii) brief instruments description (interview scripts, observation approaches) and (iii) procedure [interview protocols for each group, observation of street intervention (n=434) and memos, documental analysis (e.g., documents produced by homeless); ethical guidelines]. The third section synthetizes subphase 1.1. In order to accomplish that purpose the presentation of critical problems/preoccupations antecedes the explanation of predominant discursive patterns and behaviors (not) performed to deal with them. Complementarily, this section also includes comments on the main divergences from this and the previous and subsequent subphases of the GT, taking in consideration the expectations mentioned by (previous) homeless, highest difficulties/barriers and identified opportunities. The papers finish with references on further research on this subject.

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