Youth homelessness is a growing global concern as both developed and developing countries are experiencing an increase in this phenomena (Karabanow, & Rains, 1997). Previous research reveals that homelessness among youth has become disturbingly common in the United States, as well as in many other countries around the world (van Wormer, 2003). Studies of youth homelessness in Canada and Guatemala (Karabanow, 2003), the United Kingdom (Reid, & Klee, 1999), Israel (Spiro, Dekel, & Peled, in press), the Netherlands (de Winter, & Noom, 2003), and the U.S. (Kipke, Unger, OConnor et al, 1997) indicate that pathways to and experiences of homelessness are strikingly similar across cultures. These youth have been shown to engage in similar strategies for meeting basic needs, abuse drugs/alcohol, and experience physical health problems, victimization, and societal alienation.

Homeless youth are identified as those who spend extended periods of time without permanent or stable residences, often with little family contact (Auerswald & Eyre, 2002). Youth who become immersed in “street” culture comprise a homeless youth population highly susceptible to peer affiliation and acceptance (Kipke et al., 1997). Emotionally distressed and unsupervised, homeless youth often seek supportive others and may quickly invest in new, but harmful, relationships in an attempt to be accepted and reduce feelings of isolation (Kidd, & Kral, 2002). Relationships with other homeless, street youth quickly become the primary source of social support. However, negative influences occur as these youth tend to affiliate with peers who are engaged in a myriad of deviant survival strategies, often leading to illegal activities (Gaetz, 2004; Hagan, & McCarthy, 1997).

Previous research has examined the experiences and circumstances of homeless youth in various countries; however, peer relationships within the context of culture have been largely overlooked. The current studies on the interaction of homeless youth with their peers have failed to include contextual facets of the culture in which the youth live. In light of the suggested parallels found among homeless youth populations across the globe, cross-cultural, comparative studies may provide additional information useful in developing methods to improve services to homeless youth.

Drawing upon the conceptual framework of individualism versus collectivism, this study aimed to gain broader understanding of this perspective on peer relationships among homeless youth from the U.S. and South Korea. To further understand the similarities and differences across Eastern and Western cultures, this study utilized qualitative interviews to query homeless youth concerning their peer relationships. Gaining increased understanding of these relationships among homeless youth can aid both countries in developing and improving services that are more attuned to cultural characteristics.