A growing problem or a misplaced definition? Carlos d'Abrera argues that the orthodox understanding of the causes of homelessness promoted by the homelessness industry’ over-emphasises the role of economic and social structures.

Solutions based on structuralist explanations – such as increasing the supply of affordable social housing – are insufficient to reduce rough sleeping. Such approaches minimise the need to address assertively, the individual characteristics, choices, and behaviours of rough sleepers, especially issues such as the high rates of mental illness and drug abuse.