2007 THE DECISION TO MOVE: AN ANALYSIS OF FACTORS THAT INFLUENCE AFRICAN AMERICANS IN THE GHETTO

Abstract

The decision to move among African Americans in a poor community encompasses individual, household, and neighborhood characteristics. Previous research focuses on the frequently studied middle class. Meanwhile substantive analyses on African Americans from poor communities remain largely understudied. The current study uses data from a low income African American community to study residential mobility decisions. A systematic, random sample of respondents completed a survey concerning their residential situation. Data were triangulated to add reliability and richness to the findings. The results show that the decision to move is not a function of residential satisfaction, but is influenced by neighborhood and sociodemographic factors. It is suggested that future research focuses on policy intended to increase homeownership and informal social control. Future research should also concentrate on the health consequences associated with movement behavior. ii TABLE OF CONTENTS Pag