Discrimination, self-harming behaviors and emotional quality of life among youth experiencing homelessness

ABSTRACT

Discrimination against the homeless is an increasingly documented phenomenon with detrimental mental and physical health impacts. Relatively less is known about potential buffers of the negative impact of this discrimination, though research suggests that resiliency and social support can help individuals who are homeless overcome adversity. A total of 147 unaccompanied youth experiencing homelessness (ages 16–24) completed a survey assessing self-reported experiences with homelessness discrimination, self-harming behaviors, drug/alcohol use and suicidality, as well as a measure of emotional quality of life (QOL). The results revealed that discrimination was associated with higher levels of suicidal ideation, drug/alcohol use and self-harming behavior. At high levels of discrimination, youth with high levels of emotional QOL reported less self-harming behavior compared to their peers with low levels of emotional QOL. These results contribute to a growing body of research establishing discrimination as an additional and relevant source of stress for individuals who are houseless.

KEYWORDS:

• Homeles
• Self-harm
• discrimination
• emerging adults
• resiliency

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Additional information

Funding

This work was supported by American Psychological Association [grant number Visionary Award 2018].

Notes on contributors

Mia Budescu

Mia Budescu is an Associate Professor of Psychology.

Amanda Sisselman-Borgia

Amanda Sisselman-Borgia is an Assistant Professor of Social Work.

Gina C. Torino

Gina C. Torino is an Associate Professor of Psychology.