Abstract

This study examined the mediating effect of self-efficacy on the relationship between perceived social support and learned helplessness among male homeless individuals. Data were collected from 232 male homeless individuals residing in temporary shelters, self-reliance facilities, and rehabilitation facilities in Seoul. The findings indicated that first, individuals who were employed or had shorter durations of homelessness exhibited higher levels of self-efficacy, while those who were unemployed or perceived their health as poor showed higher levels of learned helplessness. Second, after controlling for the duration of homelessness, employment status, and health status, social support was found to have a significant positive effect on self-efficacy. Simultaneously, self-efficacy exerted a significant negative effect on learned helplessness. Third, self-efficacy was found to have a full mediating effect on the relationship between social support and learned helplessness. Based on these findings, this study discussed practical intervention strategies aimed at mitigating learned helplessness by enhancing self-efficacy within the homeless population.