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Homelessness in Europe and the United States: A Comparison of Prevalence and Public Opinion
Author(s) -
Toro Paul A.,
Tompsett Carolyn J.,
Lombardo Sylvie,
Philippot Pierre,
Nachtergael Hilde,
Galand Benoit,
Schlienz Natascha,
Stammel Nadine,
Yabar Yanélia,
Blume Marc,
MacKay Linda,
Harvey Kate
Publication year - 2007
Publication title -
journal of social issues
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 1.618
H-Index - 122
eISSN - 1540-4560
pISSN - 0022-4537
DOI - 10.1111/j.1540-4560.2007.00521.x
Subject(s) - respondent , telephone survey , public opinion , telephone interview , psychology , demography , political science , sociology , social science , law , business , advertising , politics
Random samples of 250–435 adults were interviewed by telephone in five different nations (N= 1,546): Belgium, Germany, Italy, the UK, and the United States. The interview included questions on respondent attitudes, knowledge, and opinions regarding homelessness; respondents' own personal experiences with homelessness and homeless people; and demographic characteristics of the respondents. The highest rates for lifetime literal homelessness were found in the UK (7.7%) and United States (6.2%), with the lowest rate in Germany (2.4%), and intermediate rates in Italy (4.0%) and Belgium (3.4%). Less compassionate attitudes toward the homeless were also found on many dimensions in the United States and the UK. Possible explanations of these findings, drawn from various theoretical perspectives, and policy implications are provided .