Making the Case for Proactive Strategies to Alleviate Homelessness: A Systems Approach

Abstract

Homelessness is a complex public health issue that affects some of the most vulnerable populations in the United States. This study takes a holistic approach to better understand and analyze the multiple factors and their interconnections that contribute to the complexity of this problem. A systems analysis was conducted by utilizing the system dynamics method, which allows analyzing and comparing trends and behavior of system outcomes for different “what if” scenarios, interventions, and policy implications. Three leverage points were identified in this study to increase the effectiveness and efficiency of the current strategies to address homelessness: (1) increasing the number of affordable permanent housing units, (2) increasing the utilization of transitional housing units or shelters by the individuals experiencing homelessness, and (3) providing preventative services to at-risk populations before the onset of homelessness. Our results demonstrate that the most effective strategy is an amalgam of the solutions identified by these three leverage points. In addition, a policy analysis was conducted to study and estimate the effectiveness of various potential scenarios. This research provides data-driven and model-based insights into how decision-makers can utilize a systems approach to analyze new policy implications and create effective solutions to homelessness.

Sociopolitical Approach to the Launch History of the KBO League: Application of Complex System Paradigm

“…These previous studies analyzed the historical and developmental processes of the Korean professional baseball league based on literature reviews and empirical studies. However, when the authors of the current study discovered the complex system paradigm, a new perspective for seeing the world, we intuitively grasped the possible existence of a certain order and principle in the historical background and causes that led to the launch of the KBO League, thus representing a different view from the existing historical and social scientific analyses [15].…”

Mental Health and Homelessness in the Community of Madrid (Spain): The Impact of Discrimination and Violence

“…Homelessness in Spain has been extensively analyzed and studied since the 1990s, with research notably focusing on analyzing the homeless population and the different dimensions that shape their social exclusion [4][5][6][7][8][9]. This research has shown homelessness to be a complex issue that impacts the most vulnerable social groups, necessitating a comprehensive understanding of the various factors that impact the lives of those it affects [10]. The literature examining homelessness places particular emphasis on analyzing the factors that contribute to its appearance and persistence [11][12][13].…”

Understanding and Tackling the Complex Challenges of Homelessness and Health

“…Three studies provide a broader lens on homelessness. Nourazari [ 11 ] uses a systems approach to consider policy implications, and Calvo [ 12 ] presents a 10-year review of mortality rates and risk factors. Magwood [ 13 ] examines introducing clinical guidelines supporting health equity.…”