This research explored the experiences of eight street involved youth living in north central, British Columbia using a narrative approach. The analysis was carried out using a three phase analysis based on the approach developed by Lieblich, Tuval-Mashiach, and Zilber (1998). The narratives represented the holistic experiences of the youth and the meanings they attached to their experiences. The themes that emerged from the data were organized into five main categories that represented the participants' experiences prior to street life, the challenges associated with being on the streets, supports, personal qualities, and moving on. Three metathemes were interpreted from the narratives: Trauma, Coping, and the Essence of Living. --P. ii.
