SSC 101 Week 2 Assignment

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University Of Arizona *

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SSC 101

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Sociology

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Feb 20, 2024

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HOMELESSNESS IN AMERICA 1 Homeless Veterans in America Ashawnta Gillman The University of Arizona Global Campus SSC 101: Introduction to Social Science Professor Jamie Roughton August 21, 2023

HOMELESSNESS IN AMERICA 2 Homelessness among veterans in America has emerged as a pressing and deeply concerning issue that demands immediate attention. Despite their tremendous sacrifices and service to the nation, a significant number of veterans find themselves without a stable place to call home. This growing problem not only reflects a failure of society to adequately support those who have defended it, but it also highlights the urgent need for comprehensive strategies and resources to address the complex factors contributing to homelessness among veterans. Rather than perceiving homelessness as a form of moral failing for the person experiencing it (a common social explanation in the United States), the sociological imagination calls for considering more significant social issues. (Laubacher et., al., 2023, sec., 3.6, para., 3) In order to ensure that our veterans receive the support and care they deserve, it is imperative that we prioritize their housing needs, mental health services, and reintegration into civilian life. Only through a concerted effort can we truly honor our veterans and work towards eradicating homelessness among those who have bravely served our country. Homelessness is a complex issue that can be influenced by a multitude of factors. One of the primary factors contributing to homelessness is the lack of affordable housing. As housing costs continue to rise, many individuals and families find themselves unable to secure stable and affordable housing, forcing them into homelessness. Additionally, economic instability, such as job loss or low wages, can also play a significant role. When individuals experience financial hardships, they may struggle to cover basic expenses, including rent or mortgage payments, ultimately leading to housing insecurity. Furthermore, mental health issues and substance abuse disorders can contribute to homelessness. The lack of adequate mental health services and addiction treatment options leaves individuals vulnerable and without the necessary support to

HOMELESSNESS IN AMERICA 3 maintain stable housing. Finally, societal factors like systemic inequality, discrimination, and social isolation can exacerbate the risk of homelessness. According to Hodgetts, et., al., (2012) “homeless people are also often viewed as lesser beings whose bodies pollute and defile mainstream spaces, and thus they need to be quarantined.” (p., 1212, para., 2) These factors, among others, highlight the intricate web of circumstances that can contribute to homelessness in general. Homeless veterans often experience a unique intersection of factors that contribute to their homelessness, in addition to facing the same challenges as the general homeless population. “In 2021, 290,431 unique veterans were identified as experiencing housing instability or homelessness and 63,018 unique veterans were identified as having experienced homelessness.” (Tsai, et., al., 2022, p., 5) Firstly, the transition from military to civilian life can be a significant hurdle for veterans. The abrupt shift from a structured and purpose-driven environment to the uncertainty and lack of support in the civilian world can lead to difficulties in finding employment, maintaining stable relationships, and accessing necessary resources. Moreover, many homeless veterans struggle with mental health issues resulting from their military service, such as post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and traumatic brain injuries (TBI). According to Stasha (2021) “PTSD has been identified as the leading mental disorder among US vets.” (para., 9) These conditions can weaken and impair their ability to reintegrate into society, maintain regular employment, or sustain stable housing. Unfortunately, accessing adequate mental health services can be a challenge due to limited availability, stigma, and logistical barriers, worsening their overall vulnerability. Additionally, homeless veterans may face unique challenges related to their military service, such as difficulties in obtaining benefits and navigating the complex administration of

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HOMELESSNESS IN AMERICA 4 the Department of Veterans Affairs (VA). Veterans' benefits can be critical in providing the necessary support for housing, healthcare, and employment, but the process of accessing these benefits can be intimidating and time-consuming, resulting in delays or denials that further hinder their efforts to secure stable housing. Overall, homeless veterans often encounter a combination of factors, including the difficulties of transitioning to civilian life, mental health challenges, and navigating veterans' benefits systems, which compound their vulnerability and make it particularly challenging for them to escape homelessness. Homelessness can indeed be seen as a master status that is influenced by various ascribed and attained statuses. Ascribed statuses, such as race, gender, and age, can significantly impact an individual's vulnerability to homelessness. Minority groups, including African Americans and Native Americans, are disproportionately affected by homelessness due to systemic inequalities and lack of opportunities. Additionally, factors like age, with older individuals facing challenges such as limited job prospects or inadequate retirement savings, can increase the risk of homelessness. Furthermore, attained statuses, such as educational attainment, employment history, and access to support networks, also play a crucial role. Individuals with limited education or unstable employment histories may face difficulties in securing steady income and housing. Lack of familial support networks or social connections can further exacerbate the risk of homelessness, as there may be no safety net to fall back on during times of crisis. The intersection of these ascribed and attained statuses contributes to the complexity of homelessness as a master status. The combination of structural inequalities, personal circumstances, and social networks creates a web of factors that can perpetuate and reinforce homelessness. Recognizing the complicated nature of homelessness is essential in developing comprehensive strategies and

HOMELESSNESS IN AMERICA 5 policies that address the root causes and provide targeted support to individuals facing homelessness. Homelessness in American culture is often viewed through the lens of societal norms and values, which can influence public perceptions and responses to the issue. One prevailing norm is the belief in individualism and self-reliance, which places the responsibility on individuals to overcome their own challenges and achieve personal success. Consequently, some people may attribute homelessness to personal failures or shortcomings, overlooking the systemic and structural factors that contribute to homelessness. This perspective can lead to stigmatization and a lack of empathy towards homeless individuals. Another cultural value in American society is the emphasis on material wealth and success as indicators of worth and value. Homelessness, being a state of extreme poverty and deprivation, can be seen as a deviation from this value system. As a result, homeless individuals may be judged and devalued based on their economic status, reinforcing negative stereotypes and further marginalizing them. Compassion, empathy, and a sense of community are also deeply ingrained values that prompt individuals and organizations to address homelessness through advocacy, volunteer work, and support services. Many Americans recognize that homelessness is a complex issue influenced by systemic factors and are committed to finding solutions and aiding those in need. While negative stereotypes and judgments persist, there is also a significant segment of society that values empathy, social responsibility, and collective action to address homelessness and support those experiencing it. In conclusion, the issue of homeless veterans is a pressing concern that demands our attention and action. Our brave men and women who have served their country with honor and sacrifice should not be left to face the harsh realities of homelessness upon their return. Addressing this issue requires a comprehensive approach that combines affordable housing

HOMELESSNESS IN AMERICA 6 initiatives, access to mental health services, and employment opportunities tailored to the unique needs of veterans. By providing the necessary support and resources, we can ensure that our veterans receive the care and assistance they deserve, enabling them to reintegrate into society and lead fulfilling lives. It is our moral obligation to stand by those who have served our nation and work towards ending homelessness among veterans once and for all.

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HOMELESSNESS IN AMERICA 7 REFERENCES Hodgetts, D., Stolte, O., Nikora, L. W., & Groot, S. (2012). Drifting along or dropping into homelessness: A class analysis of responses to homelessnessLinks to an external site.. Antipode, 44(4), 1209-1226. Laubacher, M., Navarre-Jackson, L. C., Williams, A. N., Dillard, D., Pate, J., & Choi, K. P. (2023). An introduction to social science: Individuals, society, and culture. Constellation. Stasha, S. (2021) How many veterans are homeless in the US 2022Links to an external site.. PolicyAdvice. https://policyadvice.net/insurance/insights/homeless-veterans-statistics/ Tsai, J., Szymkowiak, D., & Jutkowitz, E. (2022). Developing an operational definition of housing instability and homelessness in Veterans Health Administration’s medical records. PloS One, 17(12), e0279973. https://doi.org/10.1371/journal.pone.0279973

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