# Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders’ Identity and Housing Status: The Impact on Historical Trauma and Perceived Stress

## TL;DR

This study explores how Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander identity and housing status affect perceived stress and historical trauma in young adults.

## Contribution

The study investigates the intersection of NHPI identity and houselessness in relation to historical trauma and stress.

## Key findings

- Housed participants scored significantly higher on the historical traumatic events scale than those experiencing houselessness.
- Knowledge appears to play a role in the experience of historical trauma among NHPI transition-aged youth.
- The effect of NHPI identity and housing status on perceived stress was not statistically significant.

## Abstract

Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islanders (NHPIs) are overrepresented in Hawai‘i’s houseless population. Indigenous populations, such as NHPIs, may encounter experiences of historical trauma that impact their well-being. This original research project examines how NHPI identity and houselessness compound to affect the perceived stress and historical trauma of transition-aged youth. Fifty-one participants aged 18 to 24 (M = 21.37, SD = 1.93) completed a survey that included the historical traumatic events scale, historical loss scale, perceived stress scale, and a demographic questionnaire. Over half (n = 26, 51.0%) of the participants identified as NHPI. A two-way ANOVA indicated a non-significant effect of NHPI identity and housing status on perceived stress. However, housed participants scored significantly higher than participants experiencing houselessness on the historical traumatic events scale (p = 0.006). Our findings elucidate the role of knowledge in the experience of historical trauma. Further results, limitations, and future directions are offered.