Homeless Women and Men: Their Problems and Use of Services

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Abstract
This article reports on a study of 444 homeless persons in Richmond, Virginia, that examined the relationships among homelessness and gender; current and past problems; and various demographic characteristics. The findings support the general theory that a significant proportion of homeless men and women drift down into their current situation after a history of crime, substance abuse, or mental illness. However, the path that leads to homelessness differs according to gender. Thus, men are likely to become homeless after years of crime and alcohol abuse, whereas women are likely to have taken the path of abusing nonprescription drugs. The implications of these findings for the development of policies and services are discussed from a feminist perspective.