Health and Home for Homeless People in Transition

A review of recent literature and an empirical study of homelessness in London suggest that a focus on qualities of home may contribute to a broader understanding of health and well-being that values individual experience and goals.

Abstract

In recent years, increasing focus has been placed on the relation between environmental qualities and the promotion of well-being. This paper explores this relationship from an environmental psychological approach that emphasizes the broader social and physical context and the central significance of individual goals. In particular, the qualities of home and their potential value in the promotion of well-being are discussed. This paper presents a review of recent literature, followed by an empirical study of homelessness in London. A sample of 531 adults was staying in squats, hotels, hostels, and on the streets. Each setting was examined in terms of qualities of home and a general level of well-being. The results suggest that this sample experienced low levels of well-being, typical of persons experiencing such upheaval. Furthermore, there may be a positive relation between levels of well-being and home-like qualities for some homeless settings. The paper concludes that a focus on qualities of home may contribute to a broader understanding of health and well-being that values individual experience and goals.