Signs of Homelessness
SSW Roles
Barriers
Causes
Impacts/Effects
100
What is a physical sign of homelessness?
Poor Hygiene, wearing same clothes, inconsistent grooming
100
What is one way a social worker can assess for homelessness? 
Dinner table intervention
100
What social barriers can keep people from seeking help?
Stigma, being ashamed 
100
What are some common causes of homelessness on an individual basis?
Loss of job, mental illness, being kicked out of home 
100
What impacts can homelessness have on an individual?
Developmental delays, poor self-esteem, alcohol and substance use, anxiety and school phobia
200
What comments/statements might raise a red flag?
"We've been moving around a lot."

"We've been unpacking and traveling."


200
What resources can a SW provide?
Bus passes, referrals to shelters and food banks
200
How can collaboration reduce barriers?
Raise awareness, accessibility to additional resources 
200
What are some causes of homelessness for families in general?
Separation, divorce, domestic violence, death of a family member, loss of job
200
What impacts can homelessness have on a community? 
Financial ramifications-cost of hospitalizations, police interventions and cost of incarceration 
300
How can academics be affected?
Consistent lack of preparation for school, incomplete or missing homework, poor grades 
300
What should a social worker do if he/she cannot contact family or student?
Conduct a home visit
300
What is an example of an institutional barrier that can prevent smooth collaboration outside of a school setting?
Discrepancy of homeless definition under McKinney Vento and HUD 
300
What is a common cause of homelessness on a community level?
Gentrification, cost of living 
300
What impact can homelessness have on families ?
Disruption of family dynamics 
400
How is attendance impacted?
Excessive absences and tardies, lack of participation in school activities 
400
What is a crucial role a SW can fulfill if the needs of a homeless student or family are not being met?
Advocacy 
400
What fears can prevent families seeking or accessing help?
Immigration status (fear of being deported) 

Being involved with DCFS (fear of being separated or having kids taken away)   

400
What are causes of homelessness on a state level?
Low wages/minimum wage not enough for housing
400
What impacts can homelessness have on health?

HIV/AIDS, addiction, malnutrition and tuberculosis

500
What is a behavioral change that can occur when a student is homeless?
Extreme shyness, unwilling to form relationships, poor attention span
500
How can a SW help collaboration between agencies?
Acting as a facilitator/coordinator
500
What are some barriers that can prevent a family from accessing services?
Lack of transportation and/or language barriers
500
What are causes of homelessness on a federal level?
Federal policy changes, not enough funding 
500
How can societal views contribute to negative impacts of homelessness?
Marginalized, de-valued
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