Social Networks in Time and Space: Homeless Women in Skid Row, Los Angeles

Abstract Social networks operate within a specific time-space fabric. This paper develops a theoretical framework for understanding the role of social networks among the homeless. The concept of time-space discontinuity is offered as a way to conceptualize the impacts of homelessness on social network formation, daily paths, life paths, personal identity and self-esteem. Ethnographic research among homeless women in Skid Row, Los Angeles is used to illustrate the theoretical framework. Results indicate that homeless women develop both peer and “homed'’social networks as a means of coping with their circumstances and reestablishing time-space continuity. Network relationships can also serve as substitutes for place-based stations in the daily path such as home and work. The characteristics of social networks and daily time-space paths appear to have affected the identities and self-esteem of the homeless women.