University of Kentucky
Children in Housing Distress: Their Health and Well Being
Institution
University of Kentucky
Faculty Advisor/ Mentor
Joanna Badagliacco
Abstract
National research recognizes nutritional deficiencies, sleep disorders, and increased prevalence of health conditions among children in housing distress. However, throughout a semi-structured series of interviews with families living in homeless shelters, parents repeatedly report that their children are in good health and have an overall good quality of life. These inconsistencies may indicate disconnect between the realities facing children in housing distress and their parent's understanding of their health needs. Dr. Badagliacco conducted interviews with 86 families living in homeless shelters over a period of eight years from 1993 to 2001. Each of these families had at least one child and these children and their health are the focus of this research. While no children were interviewed, parents were asked questions regarding their children's health and well being. It is the discrepancies between parental opinion and nationally reported health statistics that are being examined in relation to these children's health, well being, and opportunity for success. The potential outcomes of such differences in parental opinions versus reality could put children at risk for more serious advancing conditions. If parents cannot recognize the early stages of health conditions children may miss the opportunity for preventative or early intervention care. Additionally, health factors such as sleep, nutrition, and mental well being can develop into behavior problems and problems in school. This cycle among children in housing distress places them at a greater disadvantage for success. Intervention through policy proposals must include a combination of educational programs for families and readily accessible primary care services.
Children in Housing Distress: Their Health and Well Being
National research recognizes nutritional deficiencies, sleep disorders, and increased prevalence of health conditions among children in housing distress. However, throughout a semi-structured series of interviews with families living in homeless shelters, parents repeatedly report that their children are in good health and have an overall good quality of life. These inconsistencies may indicate disconnect between the realities facing children in housing distress and their parent's understanding of their health needs. Dr. Badagliacco conducted interviews with 86 families living in homeless shelters over a period of eight years from 1993 to 2001. Each of these families had at least one child and these children and their health are the focus of this research. While no children were interviewed, parents were asked questions regarding their children's health and well being. It is the discrepancies between parental opinion and nationally reported health statistics that are being examined in relation to these children's health, well being, and opportunity for success. The potential outcomes of such differences in parental opinions versus reality could put children at risk for more serious advancing conditions. If parents cannot recognize the early stages of health conditions children may miss the opportunity for preventative or early intervention care. Additionally, health factors such as sleep, nutrition, and mental well being can develop into behavior problems and problems in school. This cycle among children in housing distress places them at a greater disadvantage for success. Intervention through policy proposals must include a combination of educational programs for families and readily accessible primary care services.