Navigating peer-influences in a large youth homeless shelter in North America

Abstract

BackgroundThis study explored how youth who reside in a large youth homeless shelter in North America view and navigate peer-influences in the shelter. Research shows that peer influences in the lives of youth experiencing homelessness are both a risk factor and a protective factor. In order to inform the development of shelter policies and interventions that reduce and contain peer influences that put the residents at risk while cultivating peer support and cohesion, a better understanding of the residents’ views and insights regarding peer-influences is needed. MethodsInterviews (n = 27) were conducted with residents (aged 18–24) of a youth homeless shelter. Following a semi-structured open-ended interview guide, respondents were asked questions related to program outcomes and their experiences within the shelter that support those outcomes. One dominant factor emerging from the interview data analysis was the central role played by peer relationships and influences. ResultsThe residents described the shelter as housing two kinds of peer interactions. Perceived as positive peers’ influences were described as pivotal for successfully transitioning into stable, sustainable housing. Perceived as negative peer influences, on the other hand, were described as a significant risk for one’s wellbeing and trajectory. The interviewees disclosed strategies for navigating peer influences in the shelter, such as withdrawing from any social involvement with the other residents or only allowing for shallow ephemeral friendships, as well as some of the challenges involved, such as the difficulty to sever relationships with peers one came to perceive as negative.