Premium
Homelessness in the United States: Assessing Changes in Prevalence and Public Opinion, 1993–2001
Author(s) -
Tompsett Carolyn J.,
Toro Paul A.,
Guzicki Melissa,
Manrique Manuel,
Zatakia Jigna
Publication year - 2006
Publication title -
american journal of community psychology
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.113
H-Index - 112
eISSN - 1573-2770
pISSN - 0091-0562
DOI - 10.1007/s10464-005-9007-2
Subject(s) - health psychology , public opinion , public health , opinion survey , psychology , demography , medicine , gerontology , environmental health , political science , sociology , opinion leadership , nursing , public relations , politics , law
A national survey was administered in 1993–1994 ( N = 360) and repeated in 2001 ( N = 435) to assess the prevalence of homelessness as well as attitudes, opinions and knowledge regarding homelessness. No significant changes in prevalence were found, despite a strong US economy during most of the 7–8 year period. Respondents in 2001 had less stereotyped views of homeless people and were more supportive of services, but came to see homelessness as a less serious problem that was less often due to economic factors. This “mixed” set of findings may reflect both beliefs on the benefits of a good economy and an increased awareness of the complexity of homelessness. Across the surveys, younger, female, liberal, and less wealthy respondents demonstrated more sympathetic attitudes towards homeless people.