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Recommunalization of the Disenfranchised: A Theoretical and Critical Criminological Inquiry

NCJ Number
215309
Journal
Theoretical Criminology Volume: 10 Issue: 3 Dated: August 2006 Pages: 307-336
Author(s)
Bruce A. Arrigo; Yoshiko Takahashi
Date Published
August 2006
Length
30 pages
Annotation
This article examines the eight-stage model of "recommunalizing" the homeless in a single room occupancy (SRO), as developed by Arrigo based on principles derived from critical criminology.
Abstract
The SRO model examined is the Wood Streets Commons (WSC) project in downtown Pittsburgh, PA. The building, which was originally a YMCA, was purchased by a property development corporation and a management consultant team. It was renovated for single-room occupancy in 1985. Ten floors are used to house approximately 259 adult men and women, and 6 floors are leased for commercial use. The latter helps fund operating costs for the building's residential component. Common areas are a recreational room, a lounge, a library, and meeting space for tenant interaction. The program consists not only of housing but also the resocialization of the residents, which consists of eight stages. In the first stage ("alienation"), residents examine their social, economic, and psychological standing. During the second stage ("powerlessness"), the residents experience minimal pleasure in their daily activities. In stage three ("disaffiliation"), residents realize that their current problems result from longstanding spatial and social withdrawal from mainstream culture. Stages four and five involve assumption of the values of the community and the development of the perception that the social structure of the community is open to them. Stage six ("performances") involves actions to find employment, reunite with family members, complete their education, and maintain their sobriety. Stages seven and eight involved becoming secure in a new social and achievement identity while recognizing features in themselves that led to their homeless plight. The authors relate this eight-stage model to three principles of critical criminology: peacemaking, anarchist, and cultural theory. These principles are shown to underlie not only the resocialization model for WSC but also reentry for other marginalized groups. 18 notes and 59 references

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