This week we researched the homeless population and the associated culture.  I was hoping to learn a little more about their social construct and if there is some kind of hierarchy among them.  I expected to learn about their healthcare needs as there are many of them and a lot of research goes into this specific area.  I wanted to delve a little deeper and find other research besides just the homeless population's need for healthcare and the risks they have.

I ended up learning that men are at greater risk for homelessness because they are less likely to ask for help if they are in financial trouble.  It is also harder for them to ask for help to get out of their situation when they become homeless.  Men are taught to be masculine, strong, and self-sufficient.  Homeless men are no different.  I also learned that men who restrict themselves to these gender roles are more prone to maladaptive behaviors such as addiction and violence against women.

I think it is important to ask what help a homeless person needs.  We know they need help, but we need to ask specifically instead of with yes or no questions.  I think it is also important to establish a relationship of trust so the homeless person feels comfortable addressing their issues and asking for help.  I am sure it is difficult to talk about for some people in these circumstances, but letting them know you are not their to judge them and only want to help them the best you can will allow them to open up and promote better care.

I think the homeless culture is a tough one to deal with, but it is worth it if we give the time.  It is a problem that is not going away.  Many people are unwilling to help and are more often annoyed by homeless people.  But if we take a moment and really look at them as people who fell on hard times and just need a little help, we can make a big difference in at least one person's life.