Research Notes: The Importance of Consumer Choice in Housing
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Description:
How important is it to provide choices for consumers during the search for permanent housing? This study explored how choice influences quality of life, satisfaction, length of time in housing and clinical outcomes.
Content:
O’Connell, M., Rosenheck, R., Kasprow, W., and Frisman, L. (2006). An examination of fulfilled housing preferences and quality of life among homeless persons with mental illness and/or substance use disorders. Journal of Behavioral Health Services and Research, 33(3): 354-365.
For most people, moving beyond homelessness means moving into permanent housing. This study explored the hypothesis that individuals who obtain more of their preferred choices related to housing will be more satisfied with housing and quality of life, remain housed longer, and have decreased clinical symptoms. Participants were interviewed at baseline, and then every 3 months following receipt of housing, for up to 5 years. The most desirable housing characteristics identified by participants included good repair/cleanliness, privacy, proximity to shopping/bus lines, low rent, and a safe neighborhood.
Results showed that at the 1-year follow-up, participants who received a higher proportion of preferred housing features reported a higher quality of life. The total number of preferred housing features received also predicted greater social support. However, receipt of preferred housing features did not predict any changes in clinical outcomes or length of time housed. The findings related to improved quality of life are important indicators that consumer preference should be thoroughly assessed, and as many choices as possible presented for consideration. Although no clinical outcomes are associated, the satisfaction experienced by consumers who perceive true choices is an important factor in recovery.
Type of Resource:
HRC Resource