On the Margins of Marginalized: Transgender Homelessness and Survival Sex. (February 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Kattari, Shanna K.; Begun, Stephanie
• Is Part Of: Affilia. Volume 32:Number 1(2017:Feb.)
• Page Start: 92
• Page End: 103
• Publication Date: 2017-02
• Subjects: discrimination -- homelessness -- shelter access -- survival sex -- transgender and gender-nonconforming issues; Social work with women -- Periodicals; Women social workers -- Periodicals; 362.8305
• DOI: 10.1177/0886109916651904
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0886-1099

Abstract

Transgender and gender-nonconforming (GNC) individuals experience homelessness at higher rates compared to the broader population, with many directly attributing homelessness to their transgender/GNC identities. Homeless individuals often engage in survival sex in exchange for food, housing, and other basic necessities. Few research efforts, however, have examined survival sex specifically among homeless transgender/GNC populations. Utilizing the 2011 National Transgender Discrimination Survey ( N = 6, 454), this exploratory study analyzes relationships between homelessness and survival sex among transgender/GNC individuals. Results suggest these individuals experience homelessness at high rates, and their engagement in survival sex is associated with homelessness. Implications for social work are subsequently discussed.