Homeless in America

The 1980s have witnessed a dramatic increase in homelessness among impoverished and dependent persons particularly in major metropolitan areas. In this in-depth study Carol L.M. Caton and her colleagues synthesize the available information on this alarming trend providing a comprehensive discussion of the causes and historical antecedents of homelessness and answering such questions as: Who are the homeless and what are their day-to-day lives like? What can be done to help the homeless and ensure that society meets its responsibility to them? How many homeless are there and why are their numbers increasing? In addressing these questions Homeless in America describes various public and private shelter programs and utilizing a unique scientific approach discusses social and economic policy innovations aimed at independent living. The result is an invaluable resource for students in the social sciences medicine law public policy and social work as well as for mental health professionals.