Living on the street: vulnerabilities and the bioethics of protection

Abstract

This study sought to analyze how homeless people live in a large city, their vulnerabilities, and alternatives for leaving the streets. We used a qualitative method by participant observation and open interviews with homeless individuals who have any type of work. Data analysis was organized into three categories: “arrival on the street,” “living on the street” and “leaving the street.” We interviewed 11 men and two women, who were between 23 and 58 years old. The reasons that lead them to the street are related to the breaking of family bonds, drug abuse, and unemployment. They experience various vulnerabilities that, added to lack of future prospects, prevent them from leaving the street. Given this situation, the bioethics of protection is a possible care strategy as it provides support with equity and promotes individual autonomy.