Erik Lovell, Brigham Young University
Social and Behavioral Sciences
This project reports on an investigation of the social mechanisms that constrain or aid goal formation and work motivation among homeless populations. We utilize theoretical insights from organizational behavior to add to a long tradition of research on the persistence of homelessness. The few studies that do use the goal formation literature to understand homelessness generally focus on individual rather than structural constraints. Our unique contribution is in evaluating work motivation from the perspectives of homeless persons and what they experience as limiting or aiding in formulating and achieving their goals.
Data come from 40 in-depth, semi-structured interviews with clients using services for the homeless throughout Salt Lake and Utah Counties in Utah. Participants were recruited through one of the major programs designed to serve the homeless population in these areas. Our intention was to sample the “typical” homeless clients who likely use these services. The program staff referred clients who would represent the majority demographic categories of homeless people in Utah (white, male, etc.), although we also interviewed those outside of it. Analytically, the sample provides a broad representation of the homeless experience in Utah.
Based on our analysis, we find a variety of barriers to goal formation and exiting homelessness. For example, due to a lack of stability and social connections, study participants were largely unwilling and unable to release what possessions they had that might be perceived as restricting their ability exit homelessness (e.g., pets, idealist goals, etc.). Likewise, many homeless have no feedback on their progress while trying to exit homelessness, and flaws in welfare policies impede the desire of many to find work. This paper addresses these and other structural issues that serve as barriers to homeless persons’ ability to formulate and achieve goals.