Adversity among youth experiencing homelessness: A latent class analysis

Youth experiencing homelessness (YEH) face high rates of childhood adversity and street victimization, both of which are linked to negative mental health outcomes. However, patterns of adversity and variation based on individual characteristics remain understudied.

This study identified heterogeneity in adversity and victimization experiences among YEH and examined associations between latent classes and sociodemographic characteristics, including age, race/ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender identity, and education, as well as homelessness duration and age at first homelessness experience.

Baseline data were drawn from a rapid-rehousing trial. Participants included 240 YEH aged 18-24, recruited from shelters, drop-in centers, and outreach in a Midwestern U.S. city.

A latent class analysis was conducted based on five adversity indicators - child abuse: physical, sexual, emotional; child neglect; and street victimization. Multivariate logistic regressions examined associations between class membership and sociodemographic and homelessness-related variables.

Two classes emerged: a High Physical and Emotional Abuse class (63%) and a Low Adversity class (37%). Class membership significantly differed by gender, sexual orientation, and race/ethnicity. Youth identifying as female or another gender had greater odds of being in the High Abuse class (OR = 2.18, 95% CI [1.02, 4.69]). Conversely, heterosexual (OR = 0.17, 95% CI [0.05-0.60]) and Black or African American youth (OR = 0.17, 95% CI [0.06-0.49]) had lower odds of membership. Age, education, and homelessness duration were not significantly related to class membership.

Findings highlight heterogeneous adversity experiences among YEH. Trauma-informed, individualized interventions are essential to address both past trauma and ongoing victimization and support well-being.