OBJECTIVE: The study sought to identify the types of housing preferred
by people with psychiatric disabilities seeking accommodations through a
community mental health service in Sydney, Australia. METHODS: Housing
options available in the mental health service's catchment area were
identified, and the extent of demands on residents' behavior that was
associated with each option was assessed using an established measure.
Clients examined descriptions of each housing option and rank- ordered the
options based on their preferences. Clients' current levels of functioning
and symptoms were also assessed. RESULTS: Clients most preferred
environments that ensured living alone in settings of low behavioral
demand. Living in one's own home was the most preferred option, followed by
living in government-subsidized housing, For-profit boarding houses were
preferred over psychiatric group homes, and homelessness, long-term
hospitalization, and crisis accommodations were least preferred. Shelter,
privacy, food, and safety were highly valued housing attributes.
Demographic characteristics, level of functioning, and severity of
psychiatric symptoms did not predict accommodation preferences. CONCLUSION:
Consumers' resistance to psychiatric group housing with high levels of
behavioral demand is unrelated to consumer characteristics and should be
considered in planning suitable accommodations for persons with psychiatric
disabilities.
Abstract Teaser