A qualitative feminist analysis of welfare mothers and human capital

Abstract

This thesis explores outcomes of women's participation in the American welfare system. The primary goal of this research was to determine the impact certain segments of the welfare system in the United States have on women's ability to obtain and retain human capital. The primary resources were formulated around participants who were working mothers living in Linn County, Oregon and receiving both Oregon Health Plan and cash welfare benefits. This project explores women's views and experiences with public services, employment, education, childcare, and health care.