The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #40485

Jigna Zatakia, BS, Paul A. Toro, PhD, Carolyn J. Tompsett, BA, and Melissa Guzicki, BA. Department of Psychology, Wayne State University, c/o Paul Toro, 71 W. Warren, Detroit, MI 48202, (313) 577-0962, jignazatakia@hotmail.com

Over the past two decades researchers have generated substantial data on homelessness, including that from surveys assessing public opinion. A few recent surveys have identified several predictors of opinion on homelessness, including age, gender, education, political affiliation, and race. The present study considered these and other factors as predictors of a wide range of beliefs, attitudes, and knowledge about homelessness. Random-digit dialing techniques were used to gather nationally representative samples in 1993-94 (N=360) and 2000-01 (N=435). Items were derived from prior national surveys on homelessness and were factored and then combined into five rational groupings of variables for multivariate multiple regression analyses: (a) social characteristics of the homeless; (b) socioeconomic characteristics; (c) personal deficits; (d) compassion factors; (e) and factors tapping causes and solutions to homelessness. Gender and age were consistently significant predictors (p<.05), with men and older respondents having more negative and/or stereotypic views of the homeless across many factors. Respondents who reported talking more frequently to family and friends about homelessness had consistently positive and supportive views about the homeless. The results by survey year were inconsistent. For example, while those surveyed in 2000-01 had lower scores on General Compassion and Economic Causes factors, they also felt that more Services Are Needed to assist the homeless, were less likely to see the homeless as stereotypic Street People, and saw the homeless as having more Family Contact. Additional findings will be presented at the APHA Meeting and implications of the findings for policy will be discussed. (246 words)

Learning Objectives:

• Participants will gain knowledge of the factors influencing the general public's views of the homeless. They will be able to articulate different elements of the public's perceptions as well as the predictors which drive them, and will be able to apply this information in the directing of new policy aiding the homeless. Participants will evaluate and assess the views of the public and the best strategies for addressing them.

Keywords: Homelessness, Public Policy

Related Web page: www.science.wayne.edu/~ptoro

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.