Changes instituted by Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) legislation have had dramatic outcomes on the well being of poor families across the United States. This study sought to investigate the health perceptions of Latino children and their parents in a segment of North Philadelphia's Latino population. Study participants included those who transitioned from welfare to work and were not heavily dependent on public cash assistance. The primary question guiding this study asked: how has welfare to work affected your health and that of other family members after your transition from welfare to work? In-depth personal interviews conducted with 12 to 18 year old Latinos, and similar separate interviews were held with a parent or guardian who transitioned from welfare to work. This study documented consistent themes regarding Latino children's perceptions of how transitioning from welfare to work affected their well being, as well as their health status, health outcomes, and family preservation. Research findings also seek to inform health policy discussions to ensure positive outcomes regarding the health and well being of the Latino community, particularly programs and services for low income families. Learning objectives: 1) Identify health perceptions of Latino children regarding welfare to work transitions; 2) Establish the link between family preservation, economic self-sufficiency, and children's well being; and 3) Contribute to the research literature on low-income Latino families transitioning from welfare to work as a means to address their needs more comprehensively.
Learning Objectives: 1) Identify health perceptions of Latino children regarding welfare to work transitions; 2) Establish the link between family preservation, economic self-sufficiency, and children's well being; and 3) Contribute to the research literature on low-income Latino families transitioning from welfare to work as a means to address their needs more comprehensively.
Keywords: Latino Health, Welfare Reform
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Congreso de Latinos Unidos, Inc.
Philadelphia, PA
I do not have any significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.