Multi-Dimensional Recovery and Growth Among the Homeless: A Positive Criminology Perspective

• In Event: Challenges in Trauma Recovery and Treatment

Abstract

The research literature on recovery and growth processes of the homeless population is limited and lacking - particularly with regard to the recovery and growth potential of that population, and its recovery capital (RC) dynamics. This qualitative study of 10 participant from Tel Aviv, attempted to fill the research gap by examining the recovery process on its various manifestations, the formation of RC, the patterns of coping with distress, and the growth processes experienced. This examination was done utilizing a positive criminological perspective, thereby enabling particular examination of the positive factors leading to recovery. The results show how a population with low or depleted RC, in a state of extreme distress, and in the pain of a bottom experience, succeeded in developing RC on a personal, social, and spiritual level - and through it, also reaching post-crisis growth. This study yields innovative terminology to describe the coping patterns and their development in three stages—economical coping, liminal stage of resources mustering, and resourceful coping - and a model that explains and re-conceptualize the phenomenon.

Authors

• Sarel Ohayon, Bar-Ilan University

• Natti Ronel, Bar-Ilan University