Research Paper - Homelessness

According to Shinn, the general definition of homelessness in the United States is those living on the street, homeless shelters or anywhere without a roof. In Europe, on the other hand, homelessness is defined as people who do not have a secure housing or who have inadequate housing (Shin, 657-658). .
             In the article, Shinn talks of many aspects that define homelessness globally. One of these aspects is Universal Social Policies (these shape both the size and the composition of homeless populations in different countries). Within this Universal Social Policies, more specific policies to deal with homelessness are found. According to Shinn, the United Kingdom takes responsibility for homelessness; the local government is required to secure shelter for the homeless. However, in the United States, there are no federal or state aids that provide shelter to the homeless (Shinn, 663).
             Another aspect Shinn mentions is Socio-Cultural Factors (Shinn, 664). These reflect underlying social and cultural attitudes. Within this lies Cultural Attitudes and Social Welfare Policy. These usually fall under factors such as, income distributions and the generosity of social service programs. Within the Socio-Cultural Factors is Racism and Social Exclusion. No matter the country, minorities will always be underrepresented and this is true of the homeless as well. Finally, Shinn talks of Individual Factors (Shinn, 669). Within these factors are: 1) Economic Capital, which has to do with income and wealth 2) Human Capital, which usually refers to education, training and experience and finally 3) Social Capital, which refers to the social relationships one has, both formal and not. Although most countries will adhere to these informal rules, some may give importance to all while others may give importance to little or none. Once this is understood, it can be easier to distinguish what is/isn't considered homelessness.