An Exploratory Analysis of Information Communication Technology Usage Among Individuals Experiencing Homelessness

Background and Purpose: Information communication technology (ICT) use can enhance economic opportunity, strengthen personal ties, and improve access to health and housing services; all of which may aid the reduction of social isolation. This study sought to better understand how individuals experiencing homelessness utilize ICTs. Prior research suggests individuals experiencing homelessness have limited ICT use, while others report use comparable to their housed counterparts. This study explores the range and intensity of technology, social media use, and predictors of ICT use among a sample of individuals experiencing homelessness in a mid-sized southeastern U.S. city.

Methods: In 2016, a structured survey was conducted at homeless camps, various homeless shelters and service agencies on a convenience sample (N=249) of individuals experiencing homelessness. Respondents were asked a variety of questions including demographic factors, physical health, mental health, factors indicative of social engagement, and a number of questions about technology and social media utilization.  Average age was 44.4 (SD=14.01) of which 73.9% were Caucasian, 18.9% African American, and 6% identified as other. Sixty-one percent were male, 37% female.

Results:Binary logistic regression analysis was employed to identify predictors of ICT use by individuals experiencing homelessness. The variables of self-identified drug addiction, current employment, possession of a valid driver’s license, and number of times an individual has been homeless were statistically significant (χ² (4)=23.60, p < .000). Individuals self-reporting addiction to drugs were 11% (OR = .89; 95% CI = .823-.966, p = .005) less likely to use ICT. Having a job increased the likelihood of ICT usage by 10% (OR=1.10, 95% CI = 1.002-1.196, p = .045), while possessing a valid driver’s license increased likelihood of ICT use by 39% (OR=1.39; 95% CI = 1.041-1.864, p = .026). Strikingly, ICT usage was 2.14 times more likely (OR=2.14; 95% CI = 1.152-3.959, p = .016) for individuals with multiple episodes of homelessness.

Conclusions and Implications: While the findings of this study should be viewed with some caution due to the cross-sectional design and sample of convenience, it provides perspective and some insight into the complexity of ICT use among individuals experiencing homelessness. The finding that individuals with multiple episodes of homelessness were more likely to utilize ICT may suggest an adaptation to homelessness that reduces the impact of social isolation. Consistent with previous research, self-identified drug addiction was negatively associated with ICT use. Possessing a driver’s license and employment are positively associated with ICT use, suggesting greater social engagement. Future studies are needed to develop and measure the functionality and efficacy of interventions to expand the availability and use of ICT by homeless individuals. Expanded research of ICT use by this marginalized population could aid in determining if and how ICT use can foster social engagement and increase access to health care, employment and housing.