The Economics of Homelessness: An Analysis of the Facts, Theories, Policies, and Emerging Programs

Abstract

This thesis seeks to examine the multifaceted aspects of homelessness and its causes. It will begin with an examination of many different literature sources drawing from economics, sociology, and psychology for a foundation for the thesis. It then examines the facts on homelessness including definitions, methods of examination, statistics, and demographic of the homeless. The thesis continues with an examination of some of the major causes, and some other contributing factors. Then looking towards laws and policies that are being passed regarding homelessness, and looks at several cases where cities went too far in trying to regulate the homeless. Lastly it looks at many programs that have been developing across the United States that offer large areas of effective holistic approaches to treating and reintegrating homeless. The thesis finds that there is no single cause or cure for homelessness, and that many approaches must be cultivated to best help these individuals, and coordination between different programs is needed to have a long lasting effect.