The 130th Annual Meeting of APHA

Abstract #41680

Timothy P Johnson, PhD, Survey Research Laboratory, University of Illinois at Chicago, 412 S. Peoria St., Chicago, IL 60607, 312-996-5310, tjohnson@srl.uic.edu and Michael Fendrich, Institute for Juvenile Research, University of Illinois at Chicago, 840 S. Wood, Mail Code 747, Chicago, IL 60612.

Questions regarding the nature of the association between substance use and risk of homelessness remain unresolved and have important policy implications. To address this issue, we present data from a recently completed community survey in Chicago, Illinois that collected information regarding respondent histories of substance use behaviors and homeless experiences. Using logistic regression and other multivariable models, we examine the relative risk of having experienced homelessness as a function of prior substance use behaviors and experiences, controlling for demographic and other known correlates of homelessness. Similar models are employed to also examine the relative risk of several substance use behaviors as a function of prior homeless experiences. Results are discussed as they apply to our understanding of the complex relationship between the dual ravages of homelessness and substance use in contemporary America.

Learning Objectives: Participants will be able to

• describe available research concerned with the association between substance abuse and homelessness.
• recognize the limitations of using cross-sectional research to address causal relationships.

Keywords: Homelessness, Substance Abuse

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.