Study: The housing crisis in Quebec is linked to increased domestic violence and higher school dropout rates

Montreal —
A new study issued by the Quebec Inequality Observatory revealed that the worsening housing crisis in the province does not only affect economic and living aspects, but also extends to sensitive social issues including domestic violence, declining academic achievement, and rising dropout rates.

The study pointed out that the shortage of affordable housing forces many families to live in cramped or overcrowded homes, conditions associated with increased levels of stress and conflicts within the family, which raises the likelihood of exposure to psychological or physical violence compared to families living in adequate housing.

Researchers also noted that high housing costs make it difficult for low-income individuals to leave violent relationships or seek safe housing alternatives, which exacerbates family problems and limits victims' options.

The study's results showed that people who consider themselves in difficult financial situations were more likely to remain in living environments marked by violence issues, compared to those with greater economic stability.

On the educational side, researchers found a clear link between inadequate housing conditions and children's academic performance over the long term. It was found that children who grew up in homes needing major repairs or suffering from overcrowding faced greater difficulties in acquiring basic skills during the early school years.

Data indicated that children who spent their childhood years in deteriorated housing were more likely not to obtain a diploma or educational qualification by the age of twenty-one compared to their peers who grew up in stable and suitable homes.

Researchers believe that ongoing financial pressures, limited living spaces, weak home study environments, in addition to the impact of these conditions on children's sleep quality and mental health, are factors contributing to declining academic success opportunities.

The study also warned that the effects of school dropout are not limited to individuals only, but extend to the economy and society as a whole through reduced future productivity and increased costs of social care, health care, and government programs.

The study's authors confirmed that their results reinforce calls for increased investment in social and affordable housing, considering it one of the essential tools to improve family stability, enhance educational success opportunities, and reduce social problems related to poverty and deteriorating living conditions.

Health and social entities see that providing adequate housing is not just a basic need, but an influential factor in public health, social development, and children's opportunities to build a better future.