Psychological research on homelessness in Western Europe: A review from 1970 to 2001

The rapidly growing, but still small, research literature on homelessness in Europe has often been provided by non-academics, using qualitative methods, and has been published in sources that are not widely available. This article summarizes definitions employed, observed prevalence, the socio-demographic characteristics, and the physical and mental health status of the homeless in Western Europe. Research pertaining to the causes of homelessness and the societal response to the problem are also reviewed, and the ethical and methodological questions raised by European researchers are debated. A critical analysis of the largely descriptive European research is provided, and some noteworthy exceptions are described. We also discuss a number of promising theoretical models, including those that focus on learned helplessness, social strain, and social stress

Recruiting Hispanic Foster Parents: Issues of Culture, Language, and Social Policy

Hispanics are one of the fastest growing ethnic/racial groups in the United States. The number of Hispanic children entering foster care is greater than the number of licensed families who share their language and cultural identity. This paper addresses issues of culture, language, and social policy which must be considered when recruiting Hispanic foster parents. Copyright 2006 Alliance for Children and Families