TY - JOUR PY - 2011// TI - A Qualitative Study of the Formation and Composition of Social Networks Among Homeless Youth JO - Journal of research on adolescence A1 - Tyler, Kimberly A. A1 - Melander, Lisa A. SP - 802 EP - 817 VL - 21 IS - 4 N2 - Although social networks are essential for explaining protective and risk factors among homeless youth, little is known about the formation and composition of these groups. In this study, we utilized 19 in-depth interviews with homeless youth to investigate their social network formation, role relationships, housing status, and network member functions. Our findings reveal that the formation of these networks occurred in different ways including meeting network members through others or in specific social situations. The majority of social network members were currently housed and provided various functions including instrumental and social support and protection. Responses from participants provide valuable insight into the formation of social networks and potentially explain their subsequent involvement in risky behaviors.

Language: en

LA - en SN - 1050-8392 UR - http://dx.doi.org/10.1111/j.1532-7795.2011.00739.x ID - ref1 ER -