Riverside County Homeless Individuals Perspective on Primary Factors Contributing to Homelessness

• Researcher: Megan Irene Chaney, California State University, San Bernardino
• Date: June 2018
• Aim: Identify primary factors contributing to homelessness as reported by homeless individuals in Riverside County and explore treatment interventions.

Abstract

• Focus: Mental health and substance abuse as key factors leading to homelessness.
• Goal: Assist future researchers and implement effective treatment services.

Introduction

Problem Formation

• Homelessness is a significant growing epidemic impacting communities globally.
• Contributing factors include hospitalization, medical treatment, incarceration, and emergency services (NAEH, 2017).
• Impact on Children: Developmental delays and health issues (ICPH, 2015).
• Study Goal: Understand firsthand effects of homelessness from Riverside County individuals to aid in decreasing homelessness and enhancing treatment services.

Purpose of the Study

• Identify barriers to housing and factors contributing to homelessness.
• Collect perspectives of homeless individuals to inform sustainable housing interventions.
• Exploratory and descriptive research using qualitative methods.

Literature Review

Housing First Model

• Offers permanent, affordable housing with minimal preconditions.
• Aims to reduce recurring homelessness by providing stable housing as a foundation.

Co-Occurring Disorders

• High prevalence of substance abuse among individuals with mental illnesses.
• Co-occurring disorders increase the risk of homelessness and affect housing stability.

Theoretical Framework

• Choice Theory (Glasser): Focuses on personal agency in behavior and mental health.
• Wegscheider's Theory on Chemical Dependency: Views addiction as a family disease affecting roles and responsibilities within the family.

Methods

Study Design

• Qualitative study using semi-structured interviews with homeless individuals.
• Aimed to gather in-depth perspectives on homelessness and barriers to housing.

Sampling

• Non-random purposive sample of 11 homeless individuals in Riverside County.

Data Collection

• Utilized open-ended questions to explore personal insights and barriers to housing.

Data Analysis

• Transcription and thematic analysis of interview data to identify common themes.

Results

Demographic Statistics

• Sample: 11 individuals, majority male (54.5%), average age 38.8 years.
• Ethnicity: Predominantly Caucasian, with Hispanic/Latino and other minorities represented.

Qualitative Findings

• Drug Use: 72.7% cited as a primary contributor to homelessness.
• Mental Health Issues: 45.4% identified mental health as a significant factor.
• Lack of Support Systems: 54.5% of participants reported this as a contributing factor.

Discussion

• Findings align with national statistics on homelessness and mental health.
• Emphasizes the need for gender-neutral and inclusive intervention programs.
• Highlights importance of addressing mental health and substance abuse in conjunction with housing support.

Recommendations

• Advocate for longitudinal studies to assess long-term housing outcomes and treatment impacts.
• Promote development of resources for long-term stable housing.
• Encourage implementation of treatment services alongside housing opportunities.

Conclusion

• Study underscores the complex interplay of factors contributing to homelessness.
• Advocates for continued research and intervention to reduce homelessness rates.

Appendices

• Demographic Survey: Captures basic personal information and history of homelessness.
• Interview Guide: Contains open-ended questions focused on personal perspectives and experiences.

References

• Comprehensive list of sources and studies referenced throughout the research.