Date Approved
11-23-2021
Graduate Degree Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Occupational Therapy (M.S.)
Degree Program
Occupational Science and Therapy
First Advisor
Dr. Scott Truskowski
Academic Year
2021/2022
Abstract
There is limited support and resources available for homeless individuals, resulting in limited opportunities to engage in meaningful occupations, therefore decreasing these individual's overall sense of well-being, social interactions, and health outcomes. The purpose of this study was to determine the impact family-centered interventions have on the lived experiences of families as they transition to permanent housing. The Occupational Self-Assessment (OSA) was used to determine important areas of occupation and was used to develop three intervention sessions. Case study methods were used and data was collected during the final interview session. Two main themes were identified: “Empowerment” and “Resolution.” This study concludes that occupational therapy services are beneficial to families and individuals experiencing homelsness and that the OSA is a valuable tool that can be used to assist families in recognizing areas of need and improving their ability to achieve identified goals.
ScholarWorks Citation
Olsen, Ellie; Ruhe, Samantha; Brown, Ellen; and Zanni, Courtney, "A Phenomenological Study of the Lived-Experiences of Families Transitioning to Permanent Housing" (2021). Masters Theses. 1064.
https://scholarworks.gvsu.edu/theses/1064
