Researching Health and Homelessness: Methodological Challenges for Researchers Working with a Vulnerable, Hard to Reach, Transient Population

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to outline some methodological considerations for researchers working with vulnerable, transient, hard-to-reach populations. The research has been developed from reflecting on planning a study to examine the food and nutrition issues for homeless young people in inner city Adelaide. Homelessness is discussed as an example, however, many of the points are transferable to other 'hidden' or hard-to-reach populations. This applies particularly to those whose lives can be characterised by stigmatisation and powerlessness, for example, people with mental illness, sex workers, drug users/dealers, or transsexuals; that is, many groups which are relatively 'invisible' on a daily basis.