Perceptions of Time and Space of (Formerly) Homeless People

Abstract

As soon as homeless end up on the streets, they react by adapting their perceptions of self and their surroundings to be better able to cope with the new situation. This article focuses on the changes that occur in (formerly) homeless persons regarding their perceptions of time and space. First is explained how perceptions of time and space change gradually in homeless persons. Then, the study discusses how the perceptions of time and space of (formerly) homeless persons are gradually being brought in line with prevailing notions in dominant society. It is based on the findings of a qualitative follow-up study of more than 60 (formerly) homeless persons conducted in the Netherlands.

KEYWORDS:

• Homeless
• perceptions of time
• perceptions of space
• qualitative research
• follow-up study

Notes

Note. ¹This overview represents the situation at the time of the first interviews with the respondents. For cohort A, the data refer to the situation in 1993 and, for cohort B, to the situation in 1997.