“Hey, I’ve Got a Voice Too!” Narratives of Adversity, Growth and Empowerment

Authors

  • David J. Jefferson University of California, Davis
  • Debra A. Harkins Suffolk University

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.33043/JSACP.3.2.104-128

Keywords:

Empowerment, Narrative, Social and economic justice, Homelessness, Community psychology

Abstract

The present study explored meanings of “empowerment” from bottom-up perspectives. Sixteen low-income individuals experiencing homelessness and related forms of economic adversity participated. Participants reported experiencing empowerment, but also adversity, for example discrimination and ongoing poverty. Results are discussed in a broader societal context, with recommendations made for professionals interested in social and economic justice. Suggestions include enhanced inter-agency partnerships for underserved communities, investment in concepts such as workforce development, and increased opportunities for change through policy reform.

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Published

2011-10-01

How to Cite

Jefferson, D. J., & Harkins, D. A. (2011). “Hey, I’ve Got a Voice Too!” Narratives of Adversity, Growth and Empowerment. Journal for Social Action in Counseling & Psychology, 3(2), 104–128. https://doi.org/10.33043/JSACP.3.2.104-128

Issue

Vol. 3 No. 2 (2011): Journal for Social Action in Counseling and Psychology, Fall 2011

Section

Articles

License

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