Abstract
In this paper, the authors cite research indicating that youth may be the single age group most at risk of
becoming homeless, yet comparatively little research has been done in the past decade on this vulnerable
population. Some important progress has been made, including longitudinal studies on youth “aging out”
of foster care. After reviewing the characteristics of homeless youth, the authors review recent research
findings on the homeless youth population and interventions developed to address their housing and
service needs. These include interventions directed at youth themselves (education, employment, social
skills training) as well as family-focused strategies. The authors conclude with future directions for both
research and practice.