NCJ Number
205993
Journal
Sociological Spectrum Volume: 24 Issue: 4 Dated: July-August 2004 Pages: 479-505
Date Published
July 2004
Length
27 pages
Annotation
This article explores the impact of structural location of men and women on their experiences within the homeless milieus.
Abstract
This article offers a qualitative analysis of the risk factors associated with homelessness, the endurance of victimization while homeless, and the survival strategies as well as how these factors are impacted by the sex of the homeless individual. Homelessness has been linked to various disadvantages, including increased chance of victimization, suffering from poor health due to inadequate diet, being forced to work in menial jobs for low wages, enduring negative public attitudes and reactions, and higher prevalence of drug and alcohol abuse. The nature of homelessness makes the treatment of these problems very difficult. It has been asserted that women are less likely to experience homelessness because they are more likely than men to have family connections and are more likely than single men to be eligible for public assistance. Both homeless men and women are victims of theft, assault, and robbery. Females are also likely to be victims of sexual abuse. Homeless persons survive on various strategies including work, criminal activity, using jails and drug clinics as a reprieve from the streets, police work, and practical relationships. This article highlights that programs that offer services to homeless persons should focus on their role as survivors as a mechanism to facilitate their empowerment. References