In this thesis, I explored homeless people's experiences of violence. In the theoretical part, I first presented the definition of homelessness adopted by the European Federation of National Organisations Working with the Homeless (FEANTSA). I also discussed the limitations and criticisms of this definition. I then explained the structural, environmental, interpersonal and personal risk factors associated with experiences of violence among homeless people. Furthermore, I presented the negative consequences of violence experienced by homeless people, their responses to violence, survival strategies and sources of strength that support them in coping with violence. I also examined how violence among homeless people can be understood and identified the most common perpetrators of violence against homeless people. Finally, I discussed the role of social work in supporting homeless people who experience violence. The empirical part of the thesis is based on qualitative empirical research. Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with four homeless individuals who had experienced violence. The collected data were analysed qualitatively. Ethical principles were observed throughout the research process; participation was voluntary and based on informed consent for both participation in the study and the audio recording of interviews. All collected data were anonymised and treated confidentially. The findings address the research questions on the basis of the collected data. The interviewees highlighted numerous important aspects of and experiences related to violence. Violence forms part of their everyday lives, and all participants had experienced violence prior to becoming homeless. For some interviewees, experiences of violence were directly linked to the onset of homelessness. During homelessness, participants most commonly experienced physical, psychological and economic violence. They responded to violence by attempting to withdraw from dangerous situations, using self-defence, contacting security services and trying to resolve violent incidents. Important circumstances associated with violence include poverty, which directly leads to borrowing money and indebtedness, alcohol use, feelings of hopelessness, lack of privacy and high concentrations of people in particular locations. Interviewees were more likely to develop various forms of self-help than to seek support from social services in relation to experiences of violence. For them, self-help included forming relationships, engaging in hobbies, using drugs, reflecting on past experiences and setting personal boundaries. Some interviewees reported negative experiences with formal support services, particularly Centres for Social Work and the police. They frequently experienced discrimination, stigmatisation and a lack of understanding from social services. They expressed a desire for greater understanding of their specific life circumstances, more genuine relationships, more serious responses to violence, and stronger efforts towards housing support and deinstitutionalisation. In the discussion, I evaluated the findings in relation to relevant theoretical literature. Particular attention was given to poverty and the low social status of homeless people as contexts for experiences of violence. I conclude that improving living conditions and providing housing support are essential for reducing violence experienced by homeless people. This thesis demonstrates the importance of recognising signs of violence in children, as experiences of violence represent a significant risk factor for homelessness later in life. It also shows that violence against homeless people is a pressing social issue that requires a comprehensive response. The thesis sheds light on a frequently overlooked form of violence and advocates for greater understanding of homeless people and the inclusion of their knowledge in the planning of social services. Future research should also examine experiences of violence among homeless women, who face gender-specific circumstances.
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