Using appreciative inquiry to explore and enhance perceptions of empowerment for those experiencing homelessness: A pilot study.

Abstract

Individuals experiencing homelessness endure occupational injustices in the form of marginalization and deprivation at higher rates than their counterparts who are not experiencing homelessness. This population's expressed interests, needs, and desires are frequently ignored or unsolicited by a system of care that continues to exercise power over this fragile and underserved group. Marginalization and deprivation can lead to disempowerment. Few studies have been conducted that explore the perceptions of empowerment by those experiencing homelessness. Providing a "space" for the voice of those experiencing homelessness to be heard can promote occupational justice as an outcome of occupational therapy intervention. This pilot research sought to explore perceptions of empowerment by attendees of a day shelter for those experiencing homelessness. Researchers used an Appreciative Inquiry approach to elicit responses to the question, "For those experiencing homelessness who attend a day shelter, what are their perceptions of how the shelter environment supports empowerment?" This qualitative approach promotes and maintains focus on positivity and inclusivity with respect to the change process from solution identification to maintenance of identified changes. Shelter attendees participated in one of three focus groups. Based upon qualitative analysis of the data, environmental enhancements were made by the researchers and post-environmental enhancement surveys collected data related to perceptions of those enhancements to promote empowerment. Six themes emerged from the data and pointed to both internal and external factors that are perceived to impact empowerment. Results of this study can be used by occupational therapy practitioners to support and develop inclusive and empowerment-focused approaches for those experiencing homelessness.