Qualitative findings from the “Healthy Residents” study: an exploratory study of housing and psychosocial health

Abstract

Housing quality is a known social determinant of health (SDoH). Research on housing quality has shown robust associations between housing quality and both physical and psychosocial health conditions, with tenure or ownership status serving as an important moderator in this relationship. The pathway between housing and health, however, is complex and yet to be fully understood and much remains unknown about the impact that housing has on psychosocial health and wellbeing. As part of a larger mixed methods study, we conducted qualitative interviews (N = 50) with renters living in New Kensington, Pennsylvania, to explore their perspectives on the relationship between housing quality and their psychosocial health. Participants reported problems within the home which impacted their functionality and increased mental distress. They also reported a lack of control over the residence which created a general sense of dissatisfaction and futility, and stress over financial challenges which exacerbated, and were exacerbated by, issues within the home. These findings highlight the way in which poor housing quality, coupled with a lack of autonomy and resources, may exacerbate health conditions for low-income individuals who have limited control over their living conditions.