Two Decades and a Category Five Hurricane Latter...Tracking Homeless Substances Abusers in New Orleans

This paper outlines the qualitative methods utilised in a long-term follow-up study of a non-traditional population: homeless substance abusers in New Orleans. The purpose of this research project was to identify possible desistance variables in the lives of homeless substance abusers and estimate their effects on various life outcomes. By way of phone, mail and in-person interviews, this research examines the life course of a sample of New Orleans homeless substance abusers from the time they entered into treatment (1991) until the present and observes the quality of their social bonds and their long-term outcomes. By making use of longitudinal research methods, this project gives a more thorough understanding of homelessness and substance abuse