Date
8-21-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Master of Arts in Human Services: Emphasis in Forensic Behavioral Health
Department
Human Services
Abstract
The topics of housing instability and homelessness are significant public health concerns within the United States. This review aimed to explore the problem of homelessness through the lens of forensic mental health, assessing current housing interventions and outcomes for affected populations. A literature review of over 45 journal articles was conducted; this review sought to identify relevant themes, affected populations, debates in research, and proposed interventions. Topics reviewed included the history and current state of housing interventions, contributing factors, individual and societal costs and consequences, relationships between homelessness, substance use, mental health, and incarceration, housing first initiatives, considerations for special populations, and future directions of housing interventions. This literature review found evidence-based housing interventions to be an important factor related to rates of substance abuse, mental disorders, and government spending on housing programming. It also identified critical points of debate surrounding implementation, costs, and impacts on offending populations. There is little research on the impact of supportive, permanent housing on offending risks. Overall, Housing First was found to be among the most promising interventions for lowering rates of homelessness, substance abuse rates and improving mental health outcomes for individuals experiencing homelessness. Additional research is required to better understand the relationship between offending, recidivism risk, homelessness, and housing interventions. Incorporating a forensic lens into current housing intervention approaches may allow these programs to be modified more effectively for use with offenders.