Final answer:
Homeless individuals may experience a mix of emotions when seeing their reflection, with reactions being influenced by personal and societal factors. The possession of goals and hobbies can improve self-perception, while the stigma surrounding homelessness can hinder it. Reflection on past and present circumstances can further affect an individual's self-view.
Step-by-step explanation:
When homeless individuals see their reflection, it may evoke a variety of emotions based on their perceptions and experiences. Subjective poverty posits that poverty is, to a large extent, in the eye of the beholder, making people's reactions to homelessness vary depending on whether the individual seems content or is begging. This suggests an intricate interplay between self-perception and societal response. Projects, hobbies, and goals often play a significant role in how homeless individuals view themselves and their situation, with engagement in such activities offering a sense of normalcy and purpose. Goals provide motivation and can instill a sense of hope and progress. The appreciation of people and the environment can also contribute to a positive self-image, influencing how individuals perceive themselves when they catch their reflection.
However, the stigma surrounding homelessness is a major factor influencing self-perception. According to research, the reduction of interpersonal stigma upon gaining housing can significantly impact an individual's self-view, though the residual effects of past treatment linger. Furthermore, the stigma perpetuated by media, policies, and community attitudes may continue to affect homeless individuals at a macro level, highlighting the struggle between self-perception and societal views. Reflecting on life before and after obtaining housing can evoke a range of emotions, including hope for a better future or melancholy for what has been lost or endured.