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Participation and meaning in community : from the standpoint of consumers who reside in supported housing

University of British Columbia

This study was carried out within a qualitative research framework. A purposeful sample was utilised with eight individuals in a focus group format, to gather information about their experiences. All eight individuals in the study experienced some form of a psychiatric disability, and lived in supported housing. The purpose of the study was to explore how people with psychiatric disabilities who live in supported housing define, and participate in community. A constant comparative analysis was used during the research, based on structuralist and standpoint theory. This resulted in six major issues/themes: The benefits and importance of the consumer/mental health community; ideas pertaining to community change; positives of support and subsidies; changes needed to support; barriers to involvement in the geographic community; losses. The study provided opportunities for consumers to explore their perceptions of community, and dialogue as a group. Some insight with respect to altering social work practice was developed through the findings. Social workers and other mental health professionals are required to acknowledge the strengths and resources of consumers, and cannot neglect a focus on community change to provide holistic support to individuals who reside in supported housing.

Thesis/Dissertation

application/pdf

2009-05-04

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http://hdl.handle.net/2429/7820

Social Work

University of British Columbia

UBCV

DSpace