Pathways to Homelessness, Psychological Distress and Perceived Social Support among Married Women in a Shelter: Implications for Trauma Informed Care Sowmya H. S.1, Suman L. N.2,* 1Consultant Clinical Psychologist, Basaveshwaranagar Health care, Bangalore-560 079 2Professor, Department of Clinical Psychology, NIMHANS, Bangalore-560 029 *Corresponding Author e-mail: ln_suman@rediffmail.com or elenes@nimhans.kar.nic.in
Online published on 17 February, 2014. Abstract The aim of the present study was to explore reasons for homelessness, psychological distress and perceived social support among married women residents living in a shelter. The sample consisted of 33 homeless women living in a shelter in North Bangalore. The mean age of the sample was 30.56 years, mean years of education was 2.73 years, and mean duration of stay in shelter was 5.52 months. Data were obtained through a Socio-demographic Data Sheet (SDS), a Semi-Structured Interview Schedule, General Health Questionnaire-28 (GHQ-28) and the Social Support Behaviors (SS-B) Scale. Results indicated that alcohol related problems in the husband, domestic violence and other difficult life circumstances led to search for a shelter among the women. Results also revealed that homeless women had less emotional support, social support, practical assistance, financial assistance and advice or guidance from their family members. Lack of social support from the family was associated with higher psychological distress.Although subjective well-being was perceived as less than adequate, 85% of the homeless women reported that they were optimistic about their future. The findings have implications for trauma informed care for women in shelters. Top Keywords Homeless Women, Family, Psychological Distress, Social Support, Well-Being, Shelter. Top |