Files and links (1)
PDFOpen Access (License Unspecified), Open Access
Dissertation
The power of resilience: a phenomenological study of the lived experiences of adult survivors of homelessness and trauma in a supportive housing program
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Drexel University
Jun 2025
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/00010973
Abstract
This phenomenological study examines the lived experiences of adults who experienced homelessness during adolescence and survived prolonged trauma. The research focused on understanding how these individuals interpret and define their trauma and homelessness and what strategies they use to support their mental, emotional, and physical well-being in adulthood. The primary research questions explored how participants describe the trauma associated with their adolescent homelessness and how they currently manage their health and well-being: How do adults who experienced homelessness during adolescence understand and describe their homelessness experiences? How do adults who experienced homelessness during adolescence understand and describe the trauma associated with these experiences? and What strategies do these adults engage in to support their health and well-being in adulthood? Semi structured interviews with 10 participants residing in a supportive housing program operated by a nonprofit agency in Brooklyn, the New York City borough, were used to gather data. The study provides a nuanced look into the intersection of trauma, recovery, and resilience. A thematic analysis of the interview data revealed five major findings. Trauma and recovery--participants reflected on the lasting psychological and emotional impacts of homelessness, including abuse, neglect, and systemic failures. Resilience and coping--participants described adaptive strategies such as therapy, spirituality, creative expression, and community engagement. Sense of community--supportive housing fostered social connections and reduced isolation. Career and economic stability--access to education, job training, and employment services contributed to rebuilding independence. Mental health and well-being--participants emphasized the importance of trauma-informed care, peer support, and holistic wellness practices including yoga and meditation. This study contributes to the literature on trauma-informed supportive housing by centering on the voices of those with lived experience. It underscores the importance of integrating mental health care, stable housing, and holistic supports in service models aimed at youth and adults with histories of homelessness. The findings have implications for social work, policy development, and trauma recovery programs aimed at promoting long-term stability and healing. Keywords: Homelessness, adolescent trauma, supportive housing, resilience, recovery, trauma-informed care, mental health, physical health, well-being, coping strategies, lived experience, qualitative research.
Metrics
28 File views/ downloads
50 Record Views
Details
- Title
- The power of resilience
- Creators
- Totaram Andrew Singh
- Contributors
- Kristy Kelly (Advisor)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Number of pages
- xvii, 186 pages
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- School of Education (1997-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 991022057538904721