Theoretical framework or model
Discuss the theoretical framework or model that you intend to use for your capstone project. How does your chosen framework relate to your phenomenon of interest and research?
Note: I am going to write a capstone project related to hypertension in the homeless population in case you need to mention the title.
For a capstone project on hypertension in the homeless population, it’s crucial to establish a strong theoretical framework or model to guide your research and analysis. One of the suitable theoretical frameworks for this study could be the Social Determinants of Health (SDH) framework.
Theoretical Framework: Social Determinants of Health (SDH)
The Social Determinants of Health framework explores how social and economic factors impact an individual’s health outcomes. It emphasizes that health disparities are not solely due to individual choices or genetic factors but are heavily influenced by the conditions in which people live, work, and play. Here’s how this framework relates to your phenomenon of interest and research:
- Housing and Homelessness: One of the key social determinants of health is housing stability. Homelessness is a severe lack of stable housing, and it is strongly associated with poor health outcomes. By using the SDH framework, you can investigate how homelessness and housing instability contribute to hypertension among the homeless population.
- Access to Healthcare: Access to healthcare services is another critical factor in the SDH framework. Homeless individuals often face barriers to accessing healthcare, which can lead to undiagnosed or poorly managed chronic conditions like hypertension. You can explore how limited healthcare access exacerbates hypertension in this population.
- Income and Socioeconomic Status: Socioeconomic status, including income and education level, plays a significant role in health outcomes. Homeless individuals typically have low incomes and limited access to education and employment opportunities. You can examine how these socioeconomic factors contribute to hypertension in the homeless.
- Social Support and Networks: The SDH framework also considers social support and networks. Homeless individuals often lack stable social support systems, which can affect their ability to manage chronic diseases like hypertension. Investigating the role of social networks in managing hypertension among the homeless is essential.
- Food Security and Nutrition: Access to nutritious food is another social determinant of health. Homeless individuals may have limited access to healthy food options, which can lead to poor dietary choices and hypertension. You can explore the relationship between food security and hypertension in this population.
- Psychosocial Factors: Stress, mental health, and psychosocial factors are integral components of the SDH framework. Homeless individuals experience high levels of stress and mental health challenges, which can exacerbate hypertension. Understanding the interplay between psychosocial factors and hypertension is critical.
By applying the Social Determinants of Health framework to your capstone project, you can comprehensively analyze how the social and economic conditions experienced by homeless individuals contribute to the prevalence and management of hypertension. This framework will allow you to explore the multifaceted nature of the issue and identify potential interventions to address the health disparities within this vulnerable population.