Utilizing Participatory Mapping and GIS to Examine the Activity Spaces of Homeless Youth
Sponsor
Research was supported by a Portland State University Center for Academic Excellence Faculty Fellows for Partnership minigrant
Published In
American Journal of Community Psychology
Document Type
Citation
Publication Date
5-2016
Subjects
Homeless youth
Abstract
Although previous studies have informed our understanding of certain aspects of youth homelessness, few studies have critically examined the spatial and social environments utilized by youth as they navigate life on the streets. This study employed participatory mapping and Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to examine the activity spaces of homeless youth as they relate to sense of community and psychological well-being. Participants were 28 youth experiencing homelessness in Portland, Oregon, USA. Results suggest that youth engage most frequently in service-related activities, and their activity participation is significantly associated with sense of community and psychological well-being. The utility of innovative participatory methods for better understanding the diverse experiences of homeless youth is discussed alongside examination of their practical implications.
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Unaffiliated researchers can access the work here: http://dx.doi.org/10.1002/ajcp.12060
DOI
10.1002/ajcp.12060
Persistent Identifier
http://archives.pdx.edu/ds/psu/23634
Citation Details
Townley, G., Pearson, L., Lehrwyn, J. M., Prophet, N. T. and Trauernicht, M. (2016), Utilizing Participatory Mapping and GIS to Examine the Activity Spaces of Homeless Youth. Am J Community Psychol, 57: 404–414.