Online Program

336122
Listening to their needs: Homeless women's health and victimization study


Tuesday, November 3, 2015 : 3:10 p.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Gabrianna Saks, MPH, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX
Emily Spence-Almaguer, PhD, MSW, School of Public Health, Department of Health Systems and Health Behaviors, University of North Texas Health Science Center at Fort Worth, Fort Worth, TX
Shlesma Chhetri, BA, School of Public Health, Department of Health Systems and Health Behaviors, University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth, TX
Background:

Homelessness places both men and women at higher risk of victimization. The trajectory to homelessness and the consequences of living on the street is distinct for women compared to men (Wenzel, Kogel & Gelberg, 2000). This study was conducted in order to explore the unique experience of violence and victimization among homeless women, the effects these experiences have on physical and mental health, and women’s recommendations for community improvement.

Methods:

This study utilized non-random, purposive sampling of women using emergency shelter services in an urban community in Texas. A total of 150 face-to-face interviews were conducted with homeless women from December 2012 to May 2013. The interview consisted of closed and open ended questions covering recent victimization, service utilization, mental and physical health, healthcare utilization, prior abuse, and recommendations. Data was analyzed using statistical software and qualitative content analysis.

Results:

Our results showed that 46% of the participants experienced some form of physical or sexual violence and 23% were injured due to violence. However, 42% of the victims said they told no one about their victimization. The underreporting was mostly due to their lack of trust in the existing system. Qualitative results showed that women used an array of strategies to promote their safety, including isolation and finding male protectors. Respondents provided recommendations for housing, community engagement, distributing resources and creating safer environments for women.

Conclusions:

These findings demonstrate the complexity of violence experienced by women who are homeless and describe strategies used and recommended to reduce vulnerability.

Learning Areas:

Assessment of individual and community needs for health education
Other professions or practice related to public health
Public health or related public policy
Public health or related research
Social and behavioral sciences

Learning Objectives:
Demonstrate that in order to meet the needs of homeless women in the community we must first understand their experiences. Discuss the complex experience of homelessness and gain new insight into the prevalence and context of violence and victimization against women who are homeless. List the survival strategies used by homeless women and their recommendations to reduce vulnerability.

Keyword(s): Vulnerable Populations, Violence & Injury Prevention

Presenting author's disclosure statement:

Qualified on the content I am responsible for because: I collaborated with my professor Dr.Emily Spence-Almaguer in conducting this research. I have successfully completed my Masters in Public Health and have acquired research skills. I am interested in women's health especially the issues surrounding violence against women.
Any relevant financial relationships? No

I agree to comply with the American Public Health Association Conflict of Interest and Commercial Support Guidelines, and to disclose to the participants any off-label or experimental uses of a commercial product or service discussed in my presentation.