SOCS 185 Culture Essay a Homeless Situation

SOCS 185 Culture Essay a Homeless Situation

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Chamberlain University

SOCS-185 Culture and Society

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Introduction

Arty’s recent experience with homelessness is influenced by a range of social factors. On a macro level, his situation is shaped by structural elements such as economic recessions, the shortage of affordable housing, and large-scale job losses, all of which contribute to homelessness on both national and global scales. On an individual level, Arty grapples with challenges like limited education, a history of incarceration, and unstable employment, which make it even harder for him to maintain stable housing. As a veteran, Arty may also face issues stemming from his military service, such as addiction, which is common among veterans. Many veterans resort to substances like alcohol or drugs as coping mechanisms to manage the pressures of transitioning to civilian life. These factors significantly exacerbate his difficulties, contributing to his current homelessness.

In addition, Arty’s military background presents unique hurdles. Veterans often struggle to translate their military skills into qualifications that are recognized in the civilian job market, which limits their ability to secure and retain employment. This lack of stable employment further hinders their ability to afford housing and meet basic needs. Furthermore, accessing affordable healthcare, particularly for mental health concerns, can be a significant challenge for veterans like Arty. The complexity of navigating healthcare systems and the absence of affordable medical care only compound the difficulties faced by those experiencing homelessness. Moreover, the cultural shock that veterans face while transitioning from military to civilian life can complicate their efforts to find stability and obtain the necessary support.

Table: Factors Contributing to Arty’s Homelessness

SOCS 185 Culture Essay: Homelessness Situation

To better understand the challenges Arty faces, we can apply concepts such as culture shock, ethnocentrism, and cultural relativism. Culture shock refers to the disorientation that arises when an individual’s preconceptions about a particular culture clash with the reality they encounter. This disorientation often leads to a realization that previous assumptions cannot be relied upon (Kendall, 2016). Veterans like Arty, who transition from military to civilian life, may experience culture shock because the norms and expectations of civilian life differ significantly from those of military culture.

Ethnocentrism, in contrast, is the belief that one’s own cultural views and practices are superior to those of others. This mindset can lead to judgments and biases, hindering an individual’s ability to appreciate cultural diversity. For Arty, encountering such biases can make it more difficult to reintegrate into civilian society.

Cultural relativism, however, suggests that each culture should be understood within its own norms and values. For example, public nudity may be seen as inappropriate in some cultures, such as in the United States, but may be viewed differently in other parts of the world. Recognizing these cultural differences helps foster respect and understanding. By adopting a cultural relativistic perspective, we can gain a deeper understanding of the unique challenges faced by veterans like Arty and create more inclusive solutions for homelessness.

Conclusion

Arty’s homelessness is a result of both individual and societal factors, compounded by the specific challenges veterans face when transitioning to civilian life. Addressing homelessness requires a comprehensive approach that considers the varied experiences and needs of individuals like Arty. By recognizing cultural differences and applying cultural relativism, we can develop a greater understanding and support initiatives that promote stable housing and provide necessary assistance.

References

Cole, N. L. (2019, January 21). Cultural Relativism Explains Why Breakfast Differs Around the World. Retrieved May 17, 2019, from https://www.thoughtco.com/cultural-relativism-definition-3026122

SOCS 185 Culture Essay a Homeless Situation

Kendall, D. E. (2016). Sociology in Our Times: The Essentials. Boston, MA: Cengage Learning.