Research Overview
Homelessness in the United States is at a record high, with more than 770,000 people experiencing homelessness as of 2024. Many face major barriers to finding stable housing, accessing health care, and securing employment. One factor that creates additional challenges is involvement in the criminal justice system, which can make it even harder to regain stability—especially when incarceration limits future housing and job opportunities. While previous research has examined homelessness and policing, we still know very little about how people experiencing homelessness view these interactions, particularly in smaller cities like Murfreesboro, Tennessee. This project aims to fill that gap by examining their experiences with the police and how those encounters affect their lives. The study draws on surveys of people experiencing homelessness in Murfreesboro, followed by in-depth interviews with a smaller group of participants. This approach helps identify which types of police interactions are seen as helpful, neutral, or harmful.
Why it Matters
This project will help our community better understand how interactions with police affect people experiencing homelessness in Murfreesboro. By highlighting what works well and what causes harm, the findings can guide local agencies and service providers toward more effective approaches. Ultimately, the goal is to improve trust, reduce harm, and help people move toward greater stability.
Project Outcomes
Conference Presentation
Learn More
To learn more about the study, contact the research team
Research Team
Primary Contact
Dr. Ugur Orak, Associate Professor, Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Additional Researchers:
Chloe Davenport, Graduate Student, Department of Sociology and Anthropology
Community Partners:
None
Research Focus
Geographic Scope
Murfreesboro, TN
Interested in Collaboration?
Connect with the MTSU REACH Team
Contact MTSU REACH