Until the completion of this NIMH-funded study of homeless and mentally ill persons in Los Angeles, there had been no study in the professional literature which attempted to draw a comprehensive probability sample of homeless individuals. In this report, the authors describe the methodology used in their empirically-grounded research, explain how they created an accurate probability sample, and discuss how they selected and trained interviewers. After providing background information on homelessness, especially in the Skid Row area of Los Angeles, they present their findings. Like many studies of the homeless, this one revealed a predominantly young, male, minority population. While 28% were chronically mentally ill, and 34% were chronic substance abusers, 38% received no diagnosis at all. The study also indicates that only a small percentage of those interviewed were receiving disability, general relief, or other income assistance benefits.
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