PA DHS - Closure of the Hamburg State Center - Longitudinal and Ethnograhic Investigation and Oral Histories

2018

Hamburg project is a longitudinal ethnographic investigation of the closure of the Hamburg State Center, an institution in Pennsylvania. Specifically, this research project aims to capture and understand the expectations and experiences of self-advocates, families, staff members, service providers, and communities impacted by the Hamburg Centers closure. Data collection will include participant observation, archival and policy document collection, ethnographic interviews, and diary-keeping. This project draws on critical discourse analysis (Fairclough 1989; Hutchby and Wooffitt 2008; Wetherell et al 2001; Wooffitt 2005), frame analysis (Bateson 1972[1955]; Goffman 1974; Gumperz 1982; Schon and Rein 1994), and narrative analysis (Maynard-Mooney 1993; Roe 1994) to shed light on the processes and experiences of deinstutionalization. These analyses will illuminate how stakeholders define (1) themselves and their roles; (2) state and local policy objectives; (3) best practices in deinstitutionalization, person-centered planning, and community inclusion; (4) anticipated problems and solutions; and (5) the individual, experiential process of transitioning into the community.

Performing Research or Evaluation

Housing-Related Activities, Other

Professionals and Para-Professionals, Family Members/Caregivers, Adults with Disabilities, Legislators/Policy Makers, General Public

Specific Groups

State

N/A