Citation

Merrill JC, Ring-Kurtz S, Olufokunbi D, Aversa S, Sherker J. J. Health Soc. Policy 2001; 14(2): 25-43.

Affiliation

University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey, Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, USA.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2001, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

11707023

Abstract

Using the ASI, a multi-dimensional survey instrument, data were collected on women in Florida's welfare program (WAGES). The women manifested serious problems in terms of physical and mental health, employment skills and childcare needs. Length of time on welfare was strongly associated with the severity of recipients' problems. Women with 2 + years on welfare were significantly more likely to have problems. However, substance use was lower than anticipated which may be because substance abusers are dropping out of welfare. This possibility raises concerns that, rather than going into the workfore, women may be returning to the streets. If so, instead of reducing the welfare costs, we are shifting those costs to local health, social service and criminal justice systems.

Language: en