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Ethnographic methods in the development of census procedures for enumerating the homeless
Urban Anthropology
|July 1, 1991
Summary
Ethnographic methods can be integral to estimating homeless populations, not just supplemental to surveys. This approach enhances site selection, questionnaire design, and data interpretation for accurate counts.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Demography
- Urban Studies
Background:
- Estimating homeless populations in the United States presents significant methodological challenges.
- Traditional survey methods often require augmentation for comprehensive enumeration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To explore the integration of ethnographic methods with survey procedures for estimating homeless populations.
- To demonstrate the integral role of ethnography beyond a supplemental function in research design.
Main Methods:
- The study involved a 1989 Census Bureau pilot test in Baltimore, MD.
- Ethnographic methods were integrated with survey procedures for an experimental daytime count of homeless individuals.
- Ethnographic data informed site selection, questionnaire design, and interview approaches.
Main Results:
- Ethnographic techniques proved valuable in shaping the entire research procedure, not just supplementing surveys.
- Data gathered ethnographically aided in selecting appropriate research sites.
- Ethnographic insights were crucial for developing effective questionnaires and interview strategies.
Conclusions:
- Ethnographic methods can be a core component of research design for estimating homeless populations.
- The integration of ethnography enhances the accuracy and effectiveness of census and survey procedures.
- Ethnographic data provides critical context for interpreting survey results related to homelessness.
Keywords:
AmericasCensusCensus MethodsData AnalysisDeveloped CountriesEstimation TechnicsGeographic FactorsHomeless PersonsInterdisciplinary StudiesMethodological StudiesNorth AmericaNorthern AmericaPopulationPopulation StatisticsResearch MethodologyResidence CharacteristicsSpatial DistributionUnited States
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