College of Science and Health Theses and Dissertations

Date of Award

Fall 11-25-2014

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Arts (MA)

Department

Psychology

First Advisor

Patrick Fowler, Ph.D.

Second Advisor

Nathan Todd, Ph.D.

Third Advisor

Sheldon Cotler, Ph.D.

Abstract

The present study investigates the impact of a housing intervention for homeless families involved in the child welfare system on social support and their networks. Qualitative methods were employed in a randomized control trial of a housing intervention to examine the meaning of social support ±rom the perspective of caregivers while exploring the relation between instrumental support (e.g. advice, emotional support, and perceived support), family roles, decision making processes, and housing. Findings suggest little difference in families' perceptions of social support regardless of receiving a housing voucher; however, differences between doubled up housing arrangements and independently housed families may be harder to discern. Point of contact may also be crucial in understanding changes in social support for inadequately house families. Findings of this study are important in order to know how best to meet the needs of inadequately housed families who may understand social support differently due to being in the difficult position of living in unstable housing arrangements while still longing for housing of their own.

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