The Operation of Youth Social Capital in HomelessCommunities

• In Event: 534 - Section on Children and Youth Roundtables (one-hour)
  In Refereed Roundtable: Table 09. Meaning Making and Special Populations

Abstract

This study examines the practices that foster youth social capital among homeless young people. Homelessness among youth is associated with poor academic outcomes, significant health disparities, and poor socialization. This qualitative study occurred at transitional living shelters, drop-in centers, and emergency shelters located in Los Angeles County. The 40 participants for this study were both male and female between the ages of 18-24 years old. The findings of this study revealed that homeless youth rely on youth social capital embedded within their networks. Prosocial youth capital serves as a protective factor during period of residential instability. The study shows that homeless youth share resources, provide information, and give support to other youth who are homelessness. The pro youth social capital networks formed among homeless young people works as protective factor during periods of residential instability. The results suggest that fostering social capital for homeless youth can build long-term networks embedded with information, resources, and support to serve the long-term of youth who experience residential instability.

Author

• Stephanie Renee Anckle, Claremont Graduate University