Is Substance Use Associated with Perpetration and Victimization of Physically Violent Behavior and Property Offences Among Homeless Youth? A Systematic Review of International Studies

Abstract

Background: Substance use is a commonly reported problem associated with numerous adverse outcomes among homeless youth. Homelessness is reportedly a covariate to perpetration of, and victimization from, physically violent behavior and property offences. Of particular importance in both the perpetration of, and victimization from these behaviors, is the role of substance use. Objective: To appraise published studies investigating whether use of substances are associated with (1) perpetration of physically violent behavior or property offences or (2) experience of physical or property victimization among homeless youth. Types and rates of substances used were also examined. Methods: A compreh..