The relationship between housing characteristics, emotional well-being and the personal empowerment of psychiatric consumer/survivors

Community Ment Health J. 1998 Feb;34(1):57-69. doi: 10.1023/a:1018764229147.

Abstract

In this research, we examine the relationships between the housing characteristics and dimensions of community adaptation for 107 psychiatric consumer/survivors. Hypotheses about which housing characteristics best predict which dimensions of adaptation were made based on previous research and theory. Using a longitudinal research design, we found, after controlling for demographic variables and prior adaptation, that the number of living companions, housing concerns, and having a private room all significantly predicted different dimensions of community adaptation. The findings partially support our theoretical expectations and illuminate the relationship between physical, social and organizational aspects of community-based housing and the adaptation of psychiatric consumer/survivors. We discuss the implications of the results for policy and practice in providing housing for this population.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Activities of Daily Living / psychology
  • Adaptation, Psychological*
  • Adult
  • Aged
  • Community Mental Health Services*
  • Consumer Behavior*
  • Environment Design
  • Female
  • Housing*
  • Humans
  • Interview, Psychological
  • Male
  • Mental Disorders / rehabilitation*
  • Middle Aged
  • Power, Psychological*
  • Social Adjustment
  • Social Work, Psychiatric