“I Don’t Want to Pass Away Like This”: A Qualitative Study of the Goals and Needs of People Experiencing Homelessness in Tucson, Arizona
Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Background Homelessness in the United States is growing and has serious implications for the health and well-being of individuals and communities. The purpose of this study is to share the self-identified goals and needs of people experiencing homelessness in a Southwestern city in the United States. Methods We undertook secondary data analysis of qualitative responses ( n = 169) to a questionnaire that was part of a 2023 needs assessment of adults experiencing homelessness in Tucson, Arizona. Using inductive applied thematic analysis, qualitative data were transcribed, coded, and organized into themes. Results Five themes emerged from the data analysis: (1) people do not want to be homeless, they want stability, and they are willing to work for it; (2) relationships are an important driver of goals; (3) barriers at the individual and interpersonal levels are diverse and individualized; (4) stigma and discrimination hinder exits from homelessness, and (5) hope and despair are both common. Conclusion Participants experiencing homelessness overwhelmingly articulated the desire to be housed, employed, reconnect with family, and generally have stability in their lives. These findings provide a direct contradiction to the narrative that people who are homeless choose homelessness or do not want to work to change their circumstances.
Institutions: University of Arizona, Arizona State University
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: bronze
OpenAlex ID: W4415525806