A Study on Homelessness and Homelessness Phenomenon

This study sought to gather data regarding homeless individuals residing in the city center of Antalya and their familial backgrounds. The objective was to investigate their living conditions before homelessness, the factors that contributed to their situation, the onset of the process, their experiences while homeless, the problems encountered, and their aspirations for the future. The study utilized qualitative research methods and adopted a phenomenological approach in the research process. A sampling mechanism was utilized to identify participants, resulting in the engagement of 20 homeless individuals. Data was obtained using questionnaires, focus group discussions, and observational methods. The gathered data was examined employing themes and descriptive analytic techniques. Five primary themes were discerned in the research: (1) Individual attributes and social circumstances of the homeless, (2) Their conditions prior to living on the street, (3) Motivations for departing from home/family, (4) Experiences of street life, (5) Aspirations for the future. The data indicate that only one person was registered in Antalya, whereas the remaining participants were enrolled in various places around Türkiye. The principal factors contributing to homelessness are domestic abuse, bereavement, economic hardship, and addictions to alcohol, substances, and gambling. Participants' lodgings comprised hospitals, bus terminals, mosque courtyards, parks, indoor marketplaces, abandoned vehicles, tents, beaches, guesthouses, and bus stations. Homeless individuals have been noted to create a communication network among themselves, especially during the early phase of street living, sharing information regarding sources of free food and shelter options. Although the motivations for homelessness differ across individuals, it has been noted that the majority initially find street living challenging yet gradually acclimate to and normalize this existence. The research findings indicate that individuals possess low expectations regarding life. Some expressed a willingness to risk death if required; their distress regarding social isolation and stigma was apparent. Participants expressed a need for stability, hopes for employment, a belief that their housing issues required resolution, and a notable decline in confidence towards both individuals and organizations.