Topic: Homelessness in America

Statement of the Problem: The research problem motivating this study is the lack of
knowledge regarding the factors that contribute to homelessness in America.
Research question: What are the factors that contribute to homelessness in
America?
Purpose of the study: The purpose of this study is to provide knowledge of the
contributing factors of homelessness in America.

Theory Description (Conflict Theory)

Conflict theory studies issues related to race, gender, social class, criminal justice,
and international relations and further relates how the struggles of resources holds
society together (Sociology, nd). This theory details how groups (wealthy and nonwealthy) are competing with each other for scarce resources (Henslin, 2009).
Homelessness can be attributed to the failure in the system to provide jobs for able
bodies that are willing to work (Sociology, nd). It is a constant struggle for power in
an unequal society.

Conflict theory as a lens

for the research problem of
contributing factors of
homelessness

The proposed study will use conflict theory as a

theoretical lens. Conflict theory provides insight on the
inequalities among the wealthy and the power where
there is a constant struggle for scarce resources and
power. The homelessness will view themselves as less
important as the wealthy due to their lack of
resources. Homelessness may be the end result of
working low wage jobs and being able to maintain the
standard of living

Henslin, J. (2009). The Sociological Perspective. In Sociology: A down-to-earth

approach (Vol. 1, pp. 29-32). Boston, MA: Pearson/A and B.
Sociology. (n.d.). Retrieved October 13, 2015, from
https://www.pearsonhighered.com/assets/hip/us/hip_us_pearsonhighered/samplecha
pter/020577718X.pdf