Experiences of discrimination among young adults experiencing homelessness: Relationship to mental health outcomes.
Sarah C. Narendorf, Ashley N. Palmer, Kenya Minott, Diane Santa Maria, Kimberly Bender, Jama Shelton, Kristin M. Ferguson, Hsun-Ta Hsu, Anamika Barman‐Adhikari, Robin Petering
Abstract
= 1,055) reported experiencing at least one of the five forms of everyday discrimination experiences at least a few times a year, with the most common reason attributed to their housing situation (46%). Sexual orientation, juvenile justice involvement, and having been homeless for 2 years or more were associated with increased odds of experiencing discrimination. Discrimination was a strong predictor of psychological distress but was significant only at the bivariate level for suicidal ideation. Study results suggest that experiences of discrimination are common among YAEH and that these experiences increase risk for psychological distress. Providers working with YAEH need to validate and acknowledge the impact of these experiences on mental health. And, communities need to work to reduce discrimination experiences by targeting stigma against YAEH. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2022 APA, all rights reserved).