Date of Conferral

9-24-2024

Degree

Ph.D.

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Victoria Landu-Adams

Abstract

Many African American adolescents live in disadvantaged neighborhoods due to decades-long segregationist housing policies. Living in these settings have isolated them from mainstream society and put them at risk for developmental issues and engagement in risky behaviors and violent crime as young adults. The purpose of this study was to examine past experiences of public housing beneficiaries exposed to concentrated poverty and their perceptions of how their neighborhood characteristics affect adolescent development. Research questions examined how housing policies have inhibited development or isolated Black youths to specific housing programs, affecting their opportunities to be better citizens. The theoretical framework for this study was the social isolation theory. A qualitative method of inquiry was used to gain an in-depth understanding of the research phenomenon from 12 participants who were at least 18 years old. A semi-structured interview protocol was conducted, and the collected data were analyzed using NVivo computer-assisted qualitative data analysis software. Findings showed that participants believed the housing policy caused an increased deteriorating neighborhood, leading to poor living conditions, increased juvenile crime and delinquency, and lack of career motivation. The study may contribute to positive social change by informing policymakers about the need for adequate public housing for youth development.

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