Perceptions from emerging adults with a history of homelessness on their experiences with housing, health and other support services

Abstract

Homelessness is a significant public health problem in the U.S., where nearly 3.5 million emerging adults (ages 18–25) experience homelessness while unaccompanied by a parent or guardian. Emerging adults are a particularly vulnerable group, even without the added stress of homelessness. Being unhoused can exacerbate negative outcomes in wellbeing and functioning and also increase risky behaviors. These complex needs are important to consider for programs aimed at housing emerging adults with a history of homelessness. Drawing on in-depth interviews with 30 emerging adults who have experienced homelessness, this study explores a range of perspectives on challenges and opportunities for coordination of housing and social support services for emerging adults, particularly those that are perceived to contribute to housing stability. Overall, findings suggest a mix of positive and negative experiences with various approaches to case management among both stably and unstably housed participants, highlighting the overall importance of the case manager in the housing process experience. Results also indicate that stable housing may provide a platform for greater access to and utilization of physical health care resources. Important issues to be addressed in the future include perceived discrimination in service provision. These results offer policy implications, such as expanding age-related eligibility for support systems and increasing the consistency and timeliness of case management to improve the overall experience of trying to obtain and remain in stable housing.