Thesis Format
Integrated Article
Degree
Master of Science
Program
Health Promotion
Supervisor
Marshall, Carrie Anne
Abstract
Introduction: Individuals with lived experiences of substance use and homelessness experience public, systemic and self-stigma at a high rate. I conducted research for this thesis to fill a gap in existing literature by addressing the research question “What are the experiences of stigma for persons simultaneously experiencing homelessness and substance use?” Methods: I conducted this research in two phases: 1) A scoping review to synthesize existing literature about the stigma of homelessness and substance use; and 2) a secondary analysis of existing qualitative research data to identify experiences of stigma for persons who use methamphetamine and experience homelessness. Findings: The findings from both studies reveal that experiences of stigma create barriers to essential care and resources. Individuals who experience homelessness and substance use encounter public stigma, stigma from healthcare providers and self-stigma that negatively impact their health and well-being. This compounded stigma reveals that experienced of stigma can lead to a sense of social exclusion and diminished sense of self-worth. The findings from this thesis also reveal that persons who are unhoused are resilient and make efforts to assert their humanity and dignity, even when faced with public, structural and self-stigma. Conclusion: Addressing stigma is imperative to promote dignified and equitable treatment for all individuals, irrespective of substance use or housing status. The findings from this thesis highlight the need for structural and institutional policy reform to effectively address stigma faced by this population. Service providers are urged to approach caring for persons who are unhoused and who are experiencing substance use judgement-free without preconceived negative beliefs. Future research should focus on creating and evaluating anti stigma interventions to meet the needs of persons who are experiencing homelessness and substance use.
Summary for Lay Audience
Stigma refers to the negative beliefs and attitudes about individuals with certain characteristics. Persons experiencing homelessness and substance use experience stigma frequently and the layering effect of stigmatizing experiences for both of these phenomenon’s can be challenging. These experiences have negative impacts on individuals’ experiences of healthcare services, self-esteem, belonging, social inclusion and social interactions with the general public. This thesis explores the research question ‘What are the experiences of stigma for persons experiencing substance use and homelessness?’ I conducted this research in two phases. In Phase I, I conducted a scoping review guided by the question: What is known about the breadth and scope of stigma experienced by individuals experiencing homelessness in relation to substance use? In Phase II, I conducted a secondary analysis of existing qualitative research interviews from a study that explored the experiences of persons simultaneously experiencing homelessness and using methamphetamine (MA). My findings indicate that experiences of stigma make it difficult for persons who are homeless and using substances to access resources and care. Addressing this stigma through policy change, changes in care practices and further research is important in changing and promoting better and equal treatment for all individuals, regardless of their housing and substance use status.
Recommended Citation
Ward, Brooklyn A., "Stigma of Homelessness and Substance Use" (2024). Electronic Thesis and Dissertation Repository. 10641.
https://ir.lib.uwo.ca/etd/10641