Walking a Tightrope Without a Net: Exploring How Rural Homeless Adults Use Information to Solve Problems While Residents at a Northern Midwest Rural Homeless Shelter

Abstract

Using Taylor’s (1991) Information Use Environment (IUE) theory, this phenomenological study explores the experiences of rural homeless people and the phenomenon of problem solving while living in a 24-hour rural homeless shelter. Through a series of semi-structured interviews, data were collected and analyzed using Moustakas’ seven step method of analysis. Findings resulted in an expanded definition of rural homelessness that takes into account the work and effort involved in addressing physical, emotional and/or psychological well-being issues in a rural area. Findings also suggest an expansion to Savolainen’s (2006) Everyday Life Information Seeking (ELIS), called Everyday Life Information Sharing. This study also shines a light on: specific difficulties with making use of information for needed resources; purposes of personal information sources; and barriers to what Burt (1996) calls “the twin rural traditions of community and self help” (p. 6). Recommendations for how to improve information access and use for rural homeless adults’ problem solving are outlined.