Homeless Youth Notion of Homeless Youth Raises Some Questions HHS4M: Case Studies Date: April 18, 2012 Names: Layla, Merem & Shokoufeh

Homelessness Defined as, “having no fixed place to sleep at night.” Includes: Staying with friends, in shelters, on streets... The picture of homelessness has changed since the 1980s because of difficulties in economy and social support networks. Numbers in industrialized nations are growing.

Why are Youth Becoming More Homeless? Causes (3) 1. Disruptive family conditions (ex., physical, psychological, or sexual abuse, neglect, or abandonment...) 75% of homeless youth are victims of abuse. 2. Residential instability: 20% of homeless youth had been in foster care. Of the that run away from home each year, nearly 10 % become homeless. 1. Leave home to work and live independently, but face financial crisis and can't move back home. Returning to parents is not a realistic option.

What are the Homeless Youth Doing? Some are employed (45 %), but work in low-paying and temporary jobs. Most beg and do illegal things (sell drugs or sex) to cover their basic needs. They are more likely to suffer from infections, malnutrition, STDs, HIV- related health problems... They have a higher death rate than other youth as a result.

Homelessness and Identity It is extremely difficult for these individuals to make a transition to adulthood because their education is disrupted, they have limited knowledge and skills, and they rank low in self-esteem. Erik Erikson’s Theory of Psychosocial Development: Since they have not formed an identity due to the lack of competence and control over their life circumstances, role confusion is the result. Daniel Levinson’s Theory of the Seasons of Life: Even though they have goals of living in happy family lives, their dreams do not reflect their limited resources.

Theoretical Perspectives Developmental theory: Homeless live day-to-day unable to develop plans for forming a productive life structure. Functionalism: They are accused of creating their own problems by abusing drugs or alcohol and constantly wasting their money. This suggests that homelessness is a failure of socialization. Also suggesting that Canada failed to fulfill their needs. Conflict Theory: Some argue that the reduction in stable employment opportunities for those with few skills and the increasing cost of housing is an indicator of the growing gap between rich and poor.

Case Study By: Ross Nightingale Point of view: The picture he sees today represents the homeless as well-educated, well dressed, and articulating young people between the ages As a result, creating a gap between generations (specifically generation X and Y). Some questions raised include: Where do homeless obtain the money? Why can’t they use existing facilities provided by the government and non-profit organizations? Do they have no one to provide them with their needs? Suggestions: They should be given more employment opportunities, and they should be profiled so that “oldies” like Nightingale get hip to modern thinking.

The Social Problem Homeless Youth have increased over the years due to previously mentioned causes. The long-term solution is a challenge since there is no consensus on the social conditions that allow it to increase. Services and emergency medical treatments are available. However, long-term assistance and sustainability for homeless remains the greatest concern. Until the previously mentioned theories get fulfilled, many governmental and non-profit organizations continue to meet their needs.

Discussion Stereotypical ideas of how they became homeless has shaped our view of how we characterize the homeless. They are forced to sell illegal substances or their bodies to obtain the money needed for their needs. Influences our judgment, and allows other youth to use them and their products for their desires. Other youth may also be influenced by thinking that those on the streets are sustaining a good life (drugs, money, freedom from adults, or disruptive families), and may also want to join them. Open a house for homeless youth where help is available to allow them to get a job, sleep, eat, socialize with other youth in their situation... Thus, their psychological, emotional, and physical needs get met.