The U.S. Homeless Student Population: Homeless Youth Education, Review of Research Classifications and Typologies, and the U.S. Federal Legislative Response

• Published in: Child & youth care forum 2015-10, Vol.44 (5), p.687-709
• Main Authors: Abdul Rahman, Mai, Fidel Turner, J., Elbedour, Salman
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Access to Education; Barriers; Behavioral Science and Psychology; Child and School Psychology; Economic Factors; Education; Educational Attainment; Educational History; Educational Needs; Educational Research; Families & family life; Federal Government; Federal legislation; Federal Programs; Homeless People; Instructional Leadership; Original Paper; Psychology; Public Policy; Public Schools; Resilience (Psychology); Social Influences; Social Support Groups; Student Needs; Students; Youth Programs
• ISSN: 1053-1890; 1573-3319
• DOI: 10.1007/s10566-014-9298-2

Background The drastic surge in the number of homeless families in the United States (U.S.) has resulted in an increase in the number of homeless students attending U.S. public schools. Meanwhile, the U.S. public school system is struggling to meet the educational needs of their homeless students. Objective This study examined the historical trajectory of U.S. federal initiatives that aim to respond to the needs of homeless youth; homeless youth research, classifications and typologies; homeless youth social conditions; and the factors that foster or impede their education. Methods This study reviewed U.S. federal policies that intend to address homeless youth needs and education; the causes and impact of homelessness on youth; the economics of homelessness; and the relevance of resiliency in improving homeless youth prospects. Results Despite the enormous challenges homeless youth face, some manage to successfully graduate from high school. While homeless youth are incapable of building or institutionalizing the support networks and structures they need, they are capable of utilizing available support systems within their surroundings. Conclusion Without responsive structural support this vulnerable population is at high risk of failure. Several federal programs are mandated to assist homeless youth meet their basic needs and education. For these programs to realize their objectives, deliberate efforts must be expanded to assess and evaluate program efficiency. Also, past federal educational initiatives may offer insights on how to better chart and inform the many existing federal homeless youth programs that aim to meet the diverse and complex needs of homeless students.