Terri Lewinson, Georgia State assistant professor of social work, published several narratives that revealed how some homeless women face abuse while residing in extended stay hotels.
The narratives were published in article titled “Traumatic Transitions: Homeless Women’s Narratives of Abuse, Loss and Fear”, according to the Andrew Young School of Policy Studies website.
The research in the article stems from a series larger John A. Hartford studies.
The John A. Hartford Geriatric Social Work Initiative’s goal is to improve the care of older adults and their families by increasing the knowledge of social workers, according to the John A. Hartford Foundation website.
Lewinson said the John A. Hartford Geriatric Social Work Initiative made it possible for her to interview the narratives.
“Through conducting the interviews and getting to know these women through their narratives, I learned of a common story that registered with me as women who described being victim to a number of situations that were intertwined with housing experiences,” she said.
The 21 interviewees said they endured trauma that included crime exposure, childhood maltreatment and sexual intimidation, according to the website.
“Physical and emotional abuse were most commonly reported, along with financial exploitation and abandonment,” Lewinson said.
She also said community planners should anticipate these types of housing resources are needed for those whose trauma interfere with their personal well being and family stability.
“…I believe there should be programs that provide rapid rehousing, trauma-infused intervention approaches, and permanent supportive housing options for men and women who need a new start while they are negotiating family, finance and health challenges,” Lewinson said.
