The causes for family homelessness have not been evaluated in rigorously designed epidemiologic studies nor has the developmental adaptation of homeless children been adequately documented. We propose to conduct an observational study during the grant period to determine risk factors for homelessness and to assess homeless childrens' mental health, socio- emotional functioning, and educational achievement. To determine within- group variation among the children, we will focus on both risk and moderating factors. First, a population-based case-control study of homeless mothers and a comparison group of matched housed mothers AFDC will be conducted in Worcester, Massachusetts. Among the variables of interest are factors in mothers' childhood (e.g., primary attachments, family violence), adolescence and adulthood (e.g., mental illness, substance abuse, family violence and support networks) that may contribute to or moderate the risk of homelessness. Second, to assess the influence of the condition of homelessness on children, we will compare the children of homeless and housed mothers identified in the case-control study. Finally, variations in developmental adaptation of homeless children will be examined to determine the relative contribution of risk and moderating factors. Variables to be assessed include relationships with adults and peers, and the child's perceived competence, temperament, and coping resources. Several features of the study address limitations of previous research. The proposed study is large and population-based. Interviews will be standardized to minimize information bias. Standard instruments will be used both for mothers and children and variables will be rigorously defined. All relevant shelters, schools, social service agencies, and community members required for the success of the study have agreed to participate. A better understanding of risk factors for homelessness and the developmental adaptations of homeless children, with attention to moderating influences, will lead to recommendations for resource allocation and preventive programs.

Agency
National Institute of Health (NIH)
Institute
National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH)
Type
Research Project (R01)
Project #
5R01MH047312-02
Application #
3387142
Study Section
Life Course and Prevention Research Review Committee (LCR)
Project Start
1991-07-15
Project End
1994-06-30
Budget Start
1992-07-01
Budget End
1993-06-30
Support Year
2
Fiscal Year
1992
Total Cost
Indirect Cost
Name
Better Homes Fund
Department
Type
DUNS #
City
Newton
State
MA
Country
United States
Zip Code
02159
Weinreb, Linda; Perloff, Jennifer; Goldberg, Robert et al. (2006) Factors associated with health service utilization patterns in low-income women. J Health Care Poor Underserved 17:180-99
Wehler, Cheryl; Weinreb, Linda F; Huntington, Nicholas et al. (2004) Risk and protective factors for adult and child hunger among low-income housed and homeless female-headed families. Am J Public Health 94:109-15
Bassuk, Ellen L; Mickelson, Kristin D; Bissell, Heidi D et al. (2002) Role of kin and nonkin support in the mental health of low-income women. Am J Orthopsychiatry 72:39-49
Weinreb, Linda; Wehler, Cheryl; Perloff, Jennifer et al. (2002) Hunger: its impact on children's health and mental health. Pediatrics 110:e41
Weinreb, L; Goldberg, R; Lessard, D et al. (1999) HIV-risk practices among homeless and low-income housed mothers. J Fam Pract 48:859-67
Buckner, J C; Bassuk, E L; Weinreb, L F et al. (1999) Homelessness and its relation to the mental health and behavior of low-income school-age children. Dev Psychol 35:246-57
Weinreb, L; Goldberg, R; Perloff, J (1998) Health characteristics and medical service use patterns of sheltered homeless and low-income housed mothers. J Gen Intern Med 13:389-97
Bassuk, E L; Buckner, J C; Perloff, J N et al. (1998) Prevalence of mental health and substance use disorders among homeless and low-income housed mothers. Am J Psychiatry 155:1561-4
Garcia Coll, C; Buckner, J C; Brooks, M G et al. (1998) The developmental status and adaptive behavior of homeless and low-income housed infants and toddlers. Am J Public Health 88:1371-4
Bassuk, E L; Perloff, J N; Garcia Coll, C (1998) The plight of extremely poor Puerto Rican and non-Hispanic white single mothers. Soc Psychiatry Psychiatr Epidemiol 33:326-36

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