Abstract

Homelessness among families is tremendously destructive and exacts enormous human, social and economic costs. This study examined the family structure and social support as determinants of family homelessness in Lagos metropolis. The study adopted the descriptive research of the ex-post facto type. 154 participants took part in this study made up of 89 males and 65 females. Their ages ranged from 31-58years with mean of 42years and standard deviation 2. 14. One survey instrument was adopted in this study - Interpersonal Support Evaluation List and Family Structure Scale was developed. The hypotheses stated for this study were tested using simple regression analysis. The findings revealed that family structure does not predict family homelessness with {3=.034 and t=.438. The second null hypothesis as presented in tables 4 and 5 revealed that social support significantly predict family homelessness with {3=.280 and t=.3.6. It was concluded that among family members, social support can help buffer the negative impacts of poverty and economic hardship which are known to have resulted to family homelessness. It was recommended among others that). In Africa there used to be a strong tie among the family members but exposure to the Western world and imbibing their culture has affected the structure and bond that bind the family together