engleski

Trajectories to the Coast and Islands: The Meanings of These Journeys Among People Experiencing Homelessness

This article analyses the ways in which some people experiencing homelessness re-situate leisure related activities by traversing to different coastal and island locations. Based on findings from two projects, this study examines the trajectories some people experiencing homelessness take and the meanings that they attach to these journeys in Croatia. The introductory part of this paper briefly outlines trajectories related to new work opportunities, albeit mostly temporary in nature. Instances of reluctance to make these journeys are also discussed. Following this brief outline, this work focuses on another virtually unexplored reason this marginalised group may spend time at the coast or on islands. Specifically, it innovatively examines the use of leisure among people experiencing homelessness, which is generally an under- researched theme in the research literature. Common misconceptions about the importance and overall benefits of leisure for people experiencing homelessness are initially discussed. Based on qualitative research methods, this study specifically draws on 34 in-depth interviews and ethnographic field notes collected between 2019-2020. Using an inductive approach, we present themes related to leisure from our fieldwork and the meanings of these experiences to this marginalised population in this article. Findings show that living in poverty does not reduce the need for leisure or lessen the desire to be part of the broader community. Through an analysis of these homeless trajectories revealing different life- situations, this article intends to give deeper insight into the complexities and multi- dimensionality of homelessness in Croatia as well as the potential benefits of leisure for people that are socially excluded and living in poverty.

trajectories, leisure, homelessness, coping strategies, Croatia

nije evidentirano