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Childhood experiences of homeless men
E Susser1, E L Struening, S Conover
1Epidemiology of Mental Disorders Research Department, New York State Psychiatric Institute, New York.
The American Journal of Psychiatry
|December 1, 1987
Insights
Homeless men in New York City shelters frequently experienced childhood placement outside the family and exhibited problem behaviors, particularly those with a history of psychiatric care.
Area of Science:
- Social Sciences
- Psychology
- Public Health
Background:
- Homelessness is a complex social issue with deep roots in early life experiences.
- Understanding childhood adversities is crucial for addressing adult homelessness and mental health challenges.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the prevalence of childhood family separation and behavioral issues among homeless men.
- To explore the relationship between psychiatric history and childhood experiences in this population.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative interviews were conducted with homeless men residing in New York City shelters.
- Data collection focused on participants' childhood experiences, including family placement and behavioral patterns.
Main Results:
- A high frequency of childhood placement away from the family was reported by participants.
- Former psychiatric patients showed a particularly high rate of out-of-home childhood placements.
- Childhood problem behaviors were commonly reported across the interviewed group.
Conclusions:
- Early life adversities, such as family separation, are significant factors potentially contributing to adult homelessness.
- The findings highlight the need for integrated support systems addressing childhood trauma and mental health for homeless individuals.
Abstract:
The authors interviewed homeless men in New York City shelters about their childhood experiences. Childhood placement away from the family was frequent, especially among former psychiatric patients. Childhood problem behaviors were also frequent.