Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 28, 2025

Involving Individuals with Developmental Language Disorder and Their Parents/Carers in Research Priority Setting
Published on: June 6, 2020
What Makes Intentional Unidirectional Peer Support for Homeless People Work? An Exploratory Analysis Based on
Sandra H H Schel1, Linda van den Dries1, Judith R L M Wolf1
1Impuls - Netherlands Center for Social Care Research, Radboud Institute for Health Sciences, 6034Radboud University Medical Center, Nijmegen, Netherlands.
Intentional unidirectional peer support (IUPS) helps homeless individuals improve self-image and engage with services. This peer mentorship model works through trust, empathy, and guidance, benefiting both clients and peer workers.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Homeless populations face significant barriers to accessing services.
- Peer support models, specifically intentional unidirectional peer support (IUPS), are emerging as a valuable resource.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the outcomes, critical elements, and working mechanisms of IUPS.
- To understand IUPS from the perspectives of both homeless clients and peer workers.
Main Methods:
- Conducted semi-structured, face-to-face interviews.
- Included ten homeless clients and ten peer workers providing IUPS.
Main Results:
- IUPS enhances clients' self-image and personal growth.
- Clients reported better engagement with essential services.
- Key elements include rapport, empathy, trust, empowerment, support, guidance, and mediation.
Conclusions:
- IUPS is an effective support model for homeless individuals.
- A dual perspective provides a comprehensive understanding of IUPS effectiveness.
- Findings offer practical implications for implementing IUPS in homeless services.
Related Concept Videos
Self-Help Support Groups
Accessibility and Cost-Effectiveness
One of the primary strengths of self-help...
Elements Crucial for Effective Psychotherapy
The Therapeutic Alliance
The therapeutic alliance refers to the relationship between the therapist and the client. The alliance strengthens when the therapist and the client engage in a nurturing, supportive, trusting, empathetic, and respectful relationship, improving therapeutic outcomes. Therapists must monitor this relationship...
Psychological and Sociocultural Causes of Schizophrenia
Community Based Intervention
Foundations of Community Mental Health Programs
Central to the success of community-based interventions is the...
Influence of Parents and Peers on Identity
Parental Influence on Identity Development
Parents serve as primary guides and managers in an adolescent's life, offering support instrumental in decision-making and personal growth....
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification

