Work

Voices From the Street

Year: 2014

Type: article

Abstract: Homelessness threatens the health and well-being of thousands of families in the United States, yet little is known about their specific needs and how current services address them. To fill this knowledge gap, we explored the experiences of homelessness families in Detroit, Michigan. We targeted homeless mothers and their caseworkers for study to see if the perceptions of needs and services were in alignment. Using focus groups and content analysis, we identified four overarching themes that illustrate homeless mothers' experience with homelessness. We then analyzed data from caseworkers to look specifically for similarities and differences in their perceptions. Key findings included reports of family histories of violence, poverty, social isolation, and a lack of informal support as contributing to homelessness. The differing perspectives of mothers and their caseworkers regarding how best to move forward highlight how current programs and services may not be meeting the needs of this growing and vulnerable cohort.

Source: Journal of Family Nursing

DOI: 10.1177/1074840714548943

Authors: Laura Gültekin, Barbara L. Brush, Janet M. Baiardi, Keri Kirk, Kelley VanMaldeghem

Institutions: University of Michigan, University of Detroit Mercy, Howard University, Emory University

Language: English

Topic: Homelessness and Social Issues

Subfield: General Health Professions

Field: Health Professions

Domain: Health Sciences

SDGs: Reduced inequalities, Good health and well-being, Sustainable cities and communities, Peace, justice, and strong institutions

Open Access status: green