Reevaluation of “Respectful Outreach”

Focusing on the Justification of Homelessness in Interaction

Abstract

This study addressed two points. First, we analyze how homelessness is justified, as a former homeless person displays reasons for homelessness. Based on the findings, we identified a distinct significance for “Respectful Outreach,” differing from conclusions from previous studies.

In contemporary Japanese society, homelessness is seen as deviant behavior from the common sense perspective. Consequently, homeless individuals are often questioned about their reasons for doing so. While previous studies on homelessness involved researchers advocating for and explaining the reasons behind homelessness, the expanding and “sophisticated” welfare system has made it progressively challenging to justify homelessness. This study reveals the fundamental structure that makes it appropriate to inquire about the reasons for homelessness directly from homeless individuals.

The importance of “Respectful Outreach” has been underscored due to concerns regarding diminishing spaces for homelessness in public areas, prompting a reevaluation of its significance in recent research. However, the relevance of such support and the justification of homelessness remain unclear from previous research findings. This study elucidates the burden imposed on homelessness through activities aimed at describing situations in which homelessness is justified. Subsequently, we correlate the results of this study with those of earlier research, reexamining the potential significance of “Respectful Outreach” in liberating homeless people from societal scrutiny questioning their way of life.