Homelessness and its repurcussions on youth

Abstract

The aim of the study was to explore in-depth the repercussions, homelessness has on youth in Malta. This project was a case study, carrying a sample of three youth residing at the YMCA shelter, two males and one female aged between 15 and 30 years of age were chosen for this qualitative research and the questions asked were in a semi-structured manner, to help the flow of the interview. The findings for this study, revealed a lack of education, poverty, unemployment, and poor quality of life, amongst the youth interviewed due to their psychological state. In fact, there was an evident element of confusion, stress and identity crisis. This is also evident in the literature review found. This research project also revealed the need for outreach programs, designed to prevent transitional youth in residential care from ending up in a homeless situation, and also empowerment programs for homeless youth residing in respective shelters. Finally, this research showed the lack of Central Authority intervention with respect to homeless youth care and intervention, the only focus found was that of the Housing Authority. Although housing is a prime factor that leads to homelessness, youth homelessness, goes beyond that factor. There is a need of a policy, to acknowledge that homelessness amongst youth really exists and build a framework between the non-governmental organizations and the central authorities to prevent this social problem.