AbstractsSociology

Homelessness is generally accepted as a visible problem in Los Angles, but what is less widely known is that sexual minorities are disproportionately represented among the homeless population. Research on the transgender population is more limited than on sexual minorities and knowledge on their pathways to homelessness is nonexistent. This explorative study looked at the possible pathways to homelessness among transgender youth and the current services needed to assist them. In order to examine and identify pathways to homelessness, the presenting study conducted a focus group of 9 caseload carrying service providers to homeless transgender youth, ages 18 to 24, at a LGBT homeless youth resource center in Los Angeles. The study found that transgender youth had experiences that were unique in comparison to cisgender youth for their reasons in becoming transient along with having separate needs in current homeless services. The participants of the study provided in-depth details of encounters between social workers and transgender youth. From their responses, valuable insight was gained on how to work with at-risk or currently homeless transgender youth.