Related Experiment Videos
Homeless alcoholic women on skid row
The American Journal of Drug and Alcohol Abuse
|January 1, 1984
Summary
This study examined 31 homeless alcoholic women in New York City, finding their backgrounds were diverse, unlike previous research. Many women did not exhibit lifelong marginality before becoming homeless.
Area of Science:
- Social Science
- Public Health
- Addiction Studies
Background:
- Research on homeless alcoholic women is limited.
- Previous studies suggested a lifelong pattern of marginality in this demographic.
- Understanding the diverse backgrounds of homeless alcoholic women is crucial for targeted interventions.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the characteristics and backgrounds of homeless alcoholic women in New York City.
- To compare findings with previous research on this population.
- To identify factors contributing to homelessness and alcoholism in women.
Main Methods:
- Study conducted at a Women's Shelter in New York City.
- Involved the recruitment and study of 31 homeless alcoholic women.
- Data collection focused on demographic information and life histories.
Main Results:
- Findings largely confirmed earlier studies but highlighted a lack of population homogeneity.
- Most women did not exhibit a lifelong pattern of marginality.
- Homelessness triggers varied, including crises, loss of housing, or no apparent precipitating event; some had unstable living situations prior to shelter entry.
Conclusions:
- Homeless alcoholic women represent a heterogeneous group with diverse pathways to homelessness.
- Interventions should consider varied life circumstances and avoid assumptions of lifelong marginality.
- Public resources for shelter care are essential for vulnerable women facing resource depletion or crisis-induced homelessness.