Post-traumatic growth within the homeless population

This study examined the perspectives of professionals on post-traumatic growth within the homeless population as indicated by the concepts of resiliency. The study used a questionnaire to collect data from a nonprobability purposive sample of 30 professionals in the greater Sacramento area. The questionnaire focused on the various aspects of post-traumatic growth including new possibilities, appreciation for life, relating to others, spiritual change, and personal strength. The findings indicate a statistically significant positive correlation between service provider's perception of the presence of new possibilities, appreciation for life, and relating to others within the homeless population and overall observation of post-traumatic growth. Summary of findings reflect that post-traumatic growth is evidenced among the homeless population because of the coping mechanisms associated with traumatic experiences often encountered prior to and during episodes of homelessness. The recommendations include the need for increasing the potential for new possibilities and an appreciation for life amongst the homeless population, through relevant resource allocation of housing and counseling services.