Social psychological perspectives on homelessness

A number of critiques have been published drawing attention to gaps in research methods applied to issues surrounding homelessness in the United Kingdom. In this article, we discuss the use of innovative approaches and methods drawn from the field of applied social psychology and their applications to these issues. In so doing, we review the recent social psychology and homelessness literature, highlighting themes such as social identity, agency (efficacy), and service utilisation. Finally, the relevance of these perspectives for future research on homelessness in the United Kingdom is discussed.