ERIC Number: EJ885490
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2004
Pages: 7
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-1059-8405
EISSN: N/A
The Impact of Homelessness on the Health of Families
Morris, Rita I.; Strong, Linda
Journal of School Nursing, v20 n4 p221-227 2004
Qualitative research using the symbolic interactionism framework and grounded theory methodology was employed to discover the perceived health problems and dangers that homeless families with children endure. Data were collected using semistructured interviews from 34 homeless volunteer participants with 87 children. An in-depth analysis of the data using the constant comparative method led to recurrent descriptors and patterns, which were synthesized under four themes: external locus of control, deterrents to health, economic barriers, and lack of support. The findings indicate that there is an urgent need for preventive approaches to alleviate homelessness and its attendant health problems. Recommendations consistent with current federal, state, and local strategies and plans for the early identification and prevention of homelessness are presented. School nurses have an important role as advocates, health educators, and coordinators to promote realistic strategies, programs, and policies in the delivery of services to homeless families.
Descriptors: Grounded Theory, Locus of Control, Housing Needs, Qualitative Research, Homeless People, School Nurses, Identification, Health Needs, Child Health, Public Health, Interviews, Barriers, Low Income Groups, Prevention, Access to Health Care, Substance Abuse, Violence, Social Services, Poverty, Social Isolation, Emotional Response, Mental Health, Emergency Shelters
SAGE Publications. 2455 Teller Road, Thousand Oaks, CA 91320. Tel: 800-818-7243; Tel: 805-499-9774; Fax: 800-583-2665; e-mail: journals@sagepub.com; Web site: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2814
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: N/A
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Location: California
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A