Homeless Shelter Conditions and Street Victimization

Abstract   The following research addresses some of the contemporary problems that individuals experiencing homelessness face; specifically, investigating the decision to forgo shelter services and spend nights in places unfit for human inhabitation, a phenomenon known as sleeping rough. The paper begins with a broad look at the historical roots of homelessness, urbanization and the failure of mental health services, before exploring past attempts at answering the research question, why do the homeless choose to sleep rough? Several seminal studies, most of which were performed in large New York City shelters, gave context to the dangers present within shelters, but, due to both their location and methodologies, failed to capture the nuances of decision making for individuals experiencing homelessness. In order to expand the literature’s understanding of homelessness and the decision to forgo shelters, I conducted 23 in-depth interviews with various individuals embedded in the homeless culture in Phoenix, Arizona, including those experiencing homelessness, shelter employees, service providers, and the police squad designated to work the shelter beat. This thesis also provides information about the unique circumstances of Phoenix shelter services, the majority of which are housed on the Human Services Campus, a cluster of services specialized for homeless outreach. To supplement the information gathered through in-depth interviews, I analyzed crime maps of the Human Services Campus. This information, coupled with the in-depth interviews, helps explain that the homeless avoid the shelter services for a variety of reasons. These include concerns for safety, freedom, and personal property, as well as a longing to maintain dignity and avoid confrontation with shelter staff and security. Mental health and substance abuse implications are also discussed.