The literature paints a picture of a high need population with many complex, interwoven needs which lead to negative outcomes; despite this, this population is characterized as being resilient due to various strategies and coping mechanisms (Singh, Hays, & Watson, 2011). Singh et al. (2011) define resilience as “a set of learned behaviors evolving from an individual’s system of beliefs that precedes one’s ability to cope.” Being able to define oneself, being aware of oppressive forces in order to identify transgender-positive messages, connecting with a supportive community, and developing hope for one’s future are all empowering coping mechanisms identified by the community (Singh et al. 2011).
Despite the mistreatment that transgender adults …show more content…
Once homeless, these young adults described finding a community of which they felt a part, accessing information they needed and developing skills of which they were proud. Through the experience of being homeless, participants reported acquiring knowledge and community connection, but also took pride development of skills related to their homelessness including independence, autonomy, became goal-oriented and making positive meaning out of their experiences. Implied in becoming more goal oriented is taking responsibility for one’s own actions and well-being. These findings challenge the conceptualization that homelessness among trans young people is solely a mechanism for risk and violence. Homelessness should not be viewed as a solution of an expected life occurrence, but this study challenges us to identify and build upon strengths and resourcefulness identified by study participants while also working to reduce risk and victimization that were regular part of life both in homes and while homeless (Shepard,
Despite the mistreatment that transgender adults …show more content…
Once homeless, these young adults described finding a community of which they felt a part, accessing information they needed and developing skills of which they were proud. Through the experience of being homeless, participants reported acquiring knowledge and community connection, but also took pride development of skills related to their homelessness including independence, autonomy, became goal-oriented and making positive meaning out of their experiences. Implied in becoming more goal oriented is taking responsibility for one’s own actions and well-being. These findings challenge the conceptualization that homelessness among trans young people is solely a mechanism for risk and violence. Homelessness should not be viewed as a solution of an expected life occurrence, but this study challenges us to identify and build upon strengths and resourcefulness identified by study participants while also working to reduce risk and victimization that were regular part of life both in homes and while homeless (Shepard,