Causes of Homelessness
American economy over the last twenty years has had an impact on the economic landscape of the "bottom" segment of American society. A quarter of the homeless citizens have jobs but do not receive a high enough paycheck to pay rent or mortgage.
Homelessness is caused by tragic life occurrences like the loss of loved ones, job loss, domestic violence, divorce and family disputes. Other impairments such as depression, untreated mental illness, post traumatic stress disorder, and physical disabilities are also responsible for a large portion of the homeless. Natural disasters often cause current housing situations to become untenable and costly repairs are often simply not possible.
For people in families, the three most causes are lack of affordable housing, Poverty, and unemployment.
For singles, the three most commonly cited causes of homelessness are substance abuse, lack of affordable housing, and mental illness.
Two main causes why women are homeless are because of domestic violence and lack of child support. Women who live in poverty are often forced to choose between abusive relationships and homelessness. In families where child support is ordered but not paid, the decrease in income can lead to an inability to pay rent, utilities, or both.
