Homeless Youth

`I found it challenging, thought-provoking and refreshing. It is particularly attractive as the authors provide a clear theoretical paradigm from which to consider the issue′ - British Journal of Special Education`This book provides a wide-ranging and well-organized review of recent research into youth homelessness and includes sections on the problems of offering an adequate definition and estimation of youth homelessness. There is also discussion of the plethora of other "problem behaviours" associated with homelessness as well as chapters on theories and explanations of youth homelessness. The final sections of the book deal with the efficacy of existing prevention programmes and how these could be improved by the development of a more comprehensive, long term and multi-agency approach. This book is valuable as it outlines in a concise and engaging way a wealth of studies into homelessness from around the world... a valuable contribution to the study of homelessness and vulnerable youth as it is one of the few studies which situates these issues in a global context. Furthermore, it is written in a straightforward and accessible way, it will appeal to a broad range of academics, youth workers and students interested in the study of youth homelessness′ - Youth and Policy

• PART ONE: UNDERSTANDING HOMELESSNESSDefining the ProblemHomeless or Away from Home?Prevalence of Homelessness amongst JuvenilesA World SurveyBehavioural ProblemsCause or Consequence?Biographical and Psychological FactorsThe Family and the Social NetworkIn Search of an ExplanationTheories of HomelessnessPART TWO: PREVENTION AND INTERVENTIONPrevention Programmes ITackling Problem BehaviourPrevention Programmes IIKeeping Problem Youngsters off the StreetsIntervention on the StreetsComprehensive Welfare Programmes for Homeless YouthConclusionCurrent Status and Future Directions