Combining Self-Determination Theory and Photo-Elicitation to Understand the Experiences of Homeless Women

Abstract

Homelessness is a complex and gendered experience. To understand this complexity, novel theoretical frameworks and appropriate research methods are required. Most women living without homes have experienced some form of abuse or mental health issues before becoming, being or exiting homelessness and there is high prevalence of trauma in this vulnerable population. Researchers investigating women’s homelessness need to ensure the research process is not retraumatising. This paper proposes a theoretical framework that combines self-determination theory (SDT) and photo-elicitation to support and guide research conducted with women who are at risk of negative effects of power imbalances and retraumatisation in research. The framework offers new opportunities to sensitively study women’s homelessness by leveraging a strengths-based premise and empowering procedures to increase women’s control in the research process. Embedding this method within the SDT research framework repositions women from objects of research to being competent, autonomous, active and empowered agents in the research process.

Disclosure statement

The authors report no conflicts of interest.

Funding

Nil.

Author contributions

All authors have agreed on the final version and meet at least one of the following criteria as recommended by the ICMJE: substantial contributions to conception and design, acquisition of data or analysis and interpretation of data; drafting the article or revising it critically for important intellectual content.