Factors that motivate social workers to work with persons who are homeless.

摘要

The purpose of this study was to explore what motivates social workers that work with people who are homeless. The sample consisted of 12 participants. The interview guide consisted of questions regarding how demographic and social factors such as: age, gender, education, religion, personal interest, job availability, occupation and/or personal experiences with the homeless affect these attitudes/or motives. The interview guide covers challenges that these social workers are confronted with and how they overcome these barriers.;The study indicated that the majority of the social workers identified personal interest/values, education and religious beliefs as the main factors that motivate them to work with persons who are homeless. The social workers stated that bureaucracy in the public sector, housing and lack of financial resources are the three major constraints that affect their work with the homeless. The information gained from this study will help social workers and policy makers in developing more efficient intervention in serving the homeless population.