Victims hidden in plain sight: the reality of victimization among the homeless

Using the framework of structural choice theory, this exploratory study discusses self-reported differences in criminality and victimization within the homeless population as a predictor of future victimization. A sample of homeless individuals (N = 105) in a mid-size southern city was collected to investigate factors related to past and current victimization. Findings reveal that homeless individuals who reported being turned away from a shelter and as having committed a new crime since becoming homeless are significantly more likely to experience victimization.