Report 11: Taong Grasa – A study of mentally-ill individuals who roam the streets

This study investigates the taong grasa as an element of the street. It digs deeper into the mental state and does limit itself with what is seen or what is shown by the taong grasa. It answers question pertaining to what they are and how they have become what they are. The study shows that street vagrants or mga taong grasa are no different from other individuals with mental disorders like those in mental institutions. Their behaviors and attitudes in the streets are manifestations of their mental state. The study shares psychological explanations and descriptions of what they are and how they have become, like the stress factors which pushed the taong grasa to its current mental state. Observations on their daily lives and how they support themselves on the streets are unveiled. Social services and programs provided by the government are examined and compared with the treatments necessary for individuals with mental disorders. The mental institutions of the government, for example, screens the clients before admitting them due to financial and resource constraints. The study also extends the plight of the taong grasa in relation to family, community, and society. These three units in social relations have responsibilities to share to make a truth out of the claim that all development efforts must be all inclusive. Finally, the researchers recommend ways on how individuals can avoid mental and emotional stress and disorders, how the family, community, and society can provide support to its members, and how street vagrants or mga taong grasa can be treated professionally and humanely.