Life Improvements: DIY in Low Socio-economic Status Communities

Abstract

This paper aims to explore practices and motivations associated with do-it-yourself (DIY) in people from low socio-economic status (SES) backgrounds. We carried out contextual interviews with nine individuals who were involved in a wide range of making activities. Our findings showed that DIY processes were centered around improving our participants? existing living conditions and were manifested through two main motivations: sustainable and economical living; and social and community wellbeing. We contribute to the CSCW research in two ways. First, we provide a nuanced view on DIY involving a group of economically struggling individuals that is not well aligned with the traditional narratives. Second, we highlight the societal and economic factors that influenced the specific types of DIY activities that helped improve their existing lives.