WOMEN, HOMELESSNESS, AND SUBSTANCE-ABUSE - MOVING BEYOND THE STEREOTYPES

This study examined the characteristics of homeless women with substan ce abuse problems. Data were collected on a sample of 323 homeless sub stance abusers. First, 49 women and 274 men were compared to demonstra te distinct problems and treatment needs of the women. Results showed that the women were more likely than the men to abuse drugs, but less likely to receive substance abuse treatment. In addition, women spent more time in doubled-up living arrangements, and were more likely to r eceive outpatient psychiatric treatment. Second, two subgroups of wome n were compared: those who had been homeless for 6 months or less, and those who had been homeless longer than 6 months during their lifetim e. The women who had been homeless longer were less educated, younger when they first became homeless, and were more likely to abuse alcohol , to have been assaulted, and to have attempted suicide. Implications for research and treatment are discussed.