This chapter draws upon 14 years of related ethnographic studies to uncover the principal features that characterize family life among the poor. Experiences dealing with multiple agencies are discussed, as well as experiences dealing with health problems in the context of the U.S. medical care system, and the aftermaths of household emergencies. 34 references.
This chapter reviews how theorists and policymakers portray the state’s capacity to alter the behavior and beliefs of low income parents and then highlights findings from a study of two women’s experiences in their efforts to find jobs and supportive resources. Finding a job and securing welfare supports were linked to their parenting pathway, however, the mothers’ first concern was their children’s well-being. The chapter concludes by exploring whether the motivating power of raising children might lead to a more effective family policy. 34 references. (Author abstract modified)
Other
Part of a series of brochures on parenting, this brochure is designed to assist Pennsylvania parents who are in recovery from drug or alcohol abuse. It begins by urging parents to understand that change is frightening, conflict between recovery needs and the needs of the family may surface, partners and children need to recover too, children often blame themselves for addictions or relapses, and a new family is being created. Tips are provided for using what has been learned in recovery to be a better parent, and for using self-talk to change feelings and behavior.
Training Materials, Other
Designed to be used in conjunction with the Getting Real parent and youth training component of the Creating Lasting Family Connections (CLFC) curriculum, this 17-minute DVD presentation describes how each person has a shared, hidden, and lost component of the self. It discusses the critical role that trust plays in human relationships and the 'safe and alone' versus 'vulnerable and intimate' paradox faced in these relationships. A card is also included that explains the CLFC curriculum series. (Author abstract modified)
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Journal Article How have recent changes in U.S. family structure affected the cognitive, social, and emotional well-being of the nation's children-- Paul Amato examines the effects of family formation on children and evaluates whether current marriage promotion programs are likely to meet children's needs.
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Journal Article Changes in rituals and routines between drinking and sobriety were examined in families in treatment due to paternal alcohol abuse. Information was gathered through a semistructured family interview. Recurrent disruptions of rituals and routines were found between different phases in the drinking cycle. Disruptions were found typically with regard to the fathers' participation in rituals and routines, the parental roles and responsibility, the affective quality of the rituals, and the general family climate. Four categories of families were distinguished based on amount and type of…
Data and sources of information on the effects of father absence on poverty, maternal and child health, incarceration, crime, teen pregnancy, child abuse, drug and alcohol abuse, education, and childhood obesity.
This paper examines the impact of substance abuse on family functioning from two perspectives: children as victims of parental drug use and the family's role in preventing children's abuse of drugs and alcohol. The discussion addresses the health effects of parental substance abuse on the family in the form of prenatal exposure, environmental tobacco smoke, and injuries to children when parents are under the influence of drugs or alcohol. The financial consequences of smoking and alcohol abuse, marital problems related to substance abuse, social isolation, and risk for domestic violence…
