Addressing the Problems of Homeless Adolescents

Abstract

Homeless adolescents, known as “unaccompanied youth,” constitute a small but important portion of the overall homeless population, one that needs particular attention at school. In this article, we review existing literature to provide a background for educational leaders, researchers, and policymakers hoping to understand the phenomenon of adolescent homelessness, how it affects students at school, and the various strategies used to address it, including a broad consideration of the effects of adolescent homelessness in and beyond the school context. We also review methods that educators can use to address the problem of homeless youth, including advocating for the needs of this population in a larger policy context.