Public Perceptions of Homelessness Policy: A Narrative Review and Exploratory Survey with Reflections for Fremont, CA European Scientific Journal ESJ

https://www.academia.edu/171247420/Public_Perceptions_of_Homelessness_Policy_A_Narrative_Review_and_Exploratory_Survey_with_Reflections_for_Fremont_CA Homelessness is a growing problem across the world, with over million people estimated to be homeless. This study has two objectives: (1) to conduct a narrative review comparing the leading methods currently used to tackle homelessness, and (2) to explore, through an exploratory survey, how public perceptions of homelessness-related topics relate to one another in order to make policymaking more efficient and tailored to each city's respective needs. An exploratory, convenience sample survey (n=66) was done to gather public perceptions on a variety of homelessness-related issues, using Pearson correlation analysis (r, R 2) to identify associations between items. Strong correlation was found throughout several comparisons, such as empathy towards the homeless and perceived responsibility. While not as significant, a positive correlation was observed in viewing affordable housing as a leading cause vs. support for encampment bans, as well as viewing substance abuse as a factor vs. lack of empathy. These results can prove useful in understanding the subconscious biases people may hold regarding homelessness as well as improve policy implementation, with politicians knowing which policies would be well received among their constituents based on related opinions.