Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: This study examined the extent to which five common stereotypes predict intentions to discriminate against PEH by the general American public. A national online survey of U.S. adults (N = 421) examined the extent to which five stereotypes of PEH could explain the variability in discriminatory intentions toward them, as measured by preferences for social distance from PEH and restrictions to their rights. A multiple linear regression found that stereotypes of PEH as dangerous, dirty or diseased, and mentally ill or substance abusers (MISA), significantly predicted discriminatory intent after controlling for sociodemographic and exposure to homelessness variables, whereas stereotypes of PEH as character defective (i.e., lazy; irresponsible) and Black did not. Further, the dangerous stereotype partially mediated the relationship between the MISA stereotype and discriminatory intent, suggesting that somediscriminate against PEH when they assume PEH are MISA in part because they believe MISA are dangerous.
Language: English
Subfield: General Health Professions
Field: Health Professions
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7166833238