An Investigation into Attitudes towards the Homeless in Irish Society

Burke, Amy Rose (2025) An Investigation into Attitudes towards the Homeless in Irish Society. Undergraduate thesis, Dublin, National College of Ireland.

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Abstract

This current study sought to gain insight into the Irish publics attitudes towards the homeless. In addition, this present study aimed to determine if there was a difference between different demographics. Moreover, this research sought to apply the contact hypothesis to examine whether personal contact with the homeless population can impact the populations attitudes. The Attitudes towards the homeless inventory (ATHI) was administered to (n=142) through social media consisting of 11 questions on a Likert scale. This survey asked various questions regarding homelessness. Findings revealed that the younger group had less favourable attitudes towards the homeless compared to the older group. Females had more positive attitudes towards the homeless population. This study also found participants who have experienced homelessness scored significantly higher than participants who have not experienced homelessness. Findings also indicates that participants who knew someone who was homeless scored significantly higher than those who do not. There was a difference in socioeconomic status with higher than middle income scoring significantly lower than lower income and lower middle income. There was no difference in different levels of education. Findings adds to prior research in the Irish context. Results challenge previous literature that younger individuals would have more favourable attitudes. Findings also indicate that personal contact is important in shaping attitudes towards groups. However, further research should focus on how vicarious contact can influence broader social networks. This research has implications for stakeholders, awareness campaigns, homeless services, and housing.

Item Type:	Thesis (Undergraduate)
Supervisors:	Name Email Coughlan, Barry UNSPECIFIED
Uncontrolled Keywords:	ATHI; homelessness; Irish context; the contact hypothesis
Subjects:	B Philosophy. Psychology. Religion > Psychology H Social Sciences > Economics > Wealth > Poverty > Homelessness J Political Science > JN Political institutions (Europe) > Ireland H Social Sciences > Economics > Wealth > Poverty
Divisions:	School of Business (- 2025) > BA (Honours) in Psychology
Depositing User:	Ciara O'Brien
Date Deposited:	17 Nov 2025 15:05
Last Modified:	17 Nov 2025 15:05
URI:	https://norma.ncirl.ie/id/eprint/8928

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