Victimization of the Homeless: Public Perceptions, Public Policies, and Implications for Social Work Practice

Abstract

Homeless individuals are particularly vulnerable to victimization, sometimes resulting in fatalities. Theories of victimization prove useful to understanding the risks inherent in being homeless as well as the public’s perception of the homeless population. Problematically, public policy that criminalizes this population may exacerbate the victimization of this group. Municipalities have turned to law enforcement and the criminal justice system to respond to people living in public spaces. Programs that ensure adequate income, affordable housing, and supportive services to prevent homelessness and address the needs of those who are homeless are essential. In addition, increased law enforcement training and the implementation of legislation to include homeless persons as a protected class in hate crime statutes is needed. In effect, these interventions focus on reducing the risks associated with being homelessness—in turn reducing the risk of their further victimization. Social workers are both uniquely positioned and ethically obligated to support these efforts and contribute to the social inclusion of people who are homeless or at risk of becoming homeless.

The Prevalence and Nature of Violence Against Women Experiencing Homelessness: A Quantitative Study

“…The greater vulnerability of WEH is acknowledged and expressed in the most recognized definitions of homelessness, which include specific categories for WEH and acknowledge that WEH are especially vulnerable when they are literally homeless (e.g., rough sleepers) (Busch-Geertsema et al, 2016; European Federation on National Organizations Working with the Homeless [FEANTSA], 2005; Turner et al, 2018). WEH experiencing literal street homelessness are the most at-risk population among IEH (Nyamathi et al, 2000).…”

Human rights, COVID-19, and barriers to safe water and sanitation among people experiencing homelessness in Mexico City

“…In Hungary in 2010 an anti-homeless campaign banned people from begging and picking up left over food from bins (Faragó et al, 2021). These anti-homeless laws have reinforced the negative perceptions of PEH among the public and authorities and lead to support for punitive policies (Turner et al, 2018).…”

The Motivational Utility of Knowledge: Examining Fundamental Needs in the Context of Houselessness Knowledge

“…A landmark study by Olufemi [39] found that unhoused people are often referred to using derogatory and exclusionary language which is associated with the perception that unhoused people are out-group. In addition, past research has found that unhoused people are perceived to have social stigmas such as a criminal history or poor work ethic [40][41][42]. This is a misconception, as unhoused people typically are involved in society and their community.…”