Victimization in the Context of Homelessness and Housing Instability: An Exploratory Study

• In Event: Place, Space, and Victimization

Abstract

The connection between unsheltered street homelessness and victimization is well established; however, there remains a need for research focusing on victimization in the context of housing instability. This exploratory, mixed method study examines pre-hospitalization experiences associated with violence and victimization among adults experiencing both unsheltered urban homelessness and unstable housing. Research was conducted at a medical respite (MR) care facility that provides residential aftercare services to patients who lack adequate shelter in which to recover following hospital discharge. This study combines a quantitative analysis of MR client data (N=103) with qualitative interviews among both clients (n=10) and staff (n=10). Data suggests that all MR clients had been similarly exposed to tumultuous, unstable environments. Much like people experiencing unsheltered homelessness, patients who technically had housing but lacked predictably stable home environments, e.g., those who frequently moved or resided in low-rent and poor-quality housing, had been exposed to a wide array of crime- and violence-related behaviors. Both theoretical and policy implications are discussed, including the need for scholars and policy makers to expand their understanding of victimization-prone life circumstances to encompass those exposed to marginal and precarious housing.

Authors

• Joshua T. Ellsworth, Duquesne University

• Anita Zuberi, University of Pittsburgh

• Cathleen Appelt, Duquesne University

• Katie Willis, U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs