The Impact of Social Support from Teachers on the Psychosocial Functioning of Homeless Youth

Abstract

There has been extensive research on the negative outcomes experienced by homeless youth and the protective role social support plays in typical adolescent development. However, current gaps in the literature are found in regard to potential protective factors for homeless youth, showing a need for further research to examine such possible influencers as social support. Homeless youth are a vulnerable population that live in social and residential instability during a critical time of development. It is imperative that research explores the elements that could serve as potential protective factors to foster resilience and healthy adolescent development for these youths. The current study sought to explore social support as a potential protective factor for homeless youth. By utilizing a social support framework, this study researched the relationships between homeless living status (e.g., living with a relative, non-relative, or no permanent home or caregiver), teacher social support, peer social support, academic achievement and psychosocial distress. This study found that teacher social support had a direct effect on the psychosocial functioning of homeless students. This indicates that higher levels of teacher social support perceived by homeless students within the school environment may have a positive impact on these students' psychosocial outcomes and overall well-being. Limitations and implications of the current study are discussed.