The impact of formal & informal supports on a mother's well-being: Examining the lives of low-income, rural women over time

Rebecca Sero-Lynn, Purdue University

Abstract

Applying concepts from Social Exchange Theory, Ecological Theory, and the Stress and Coping Perspective, this research examined informal and formal support usage by low-income rural mothers in three states. Qualitative methods were used to analyze data from a multi-state, longitudinal investigation known as “NC-223, Rural Families Speak” that examined the well-being of rural families in the context of Welfare Reform. This study explored what informal and formal supports mothers were using, how the use of each type of support related to use of other types, and how patterns of support use were related to the mothers’ perceived well-being. Results indicated that in order to meet their needs, mothers in this study created a patchwork of support using what was easily attainable and available. The majority of mothers consistently found ways to use the same informal support network resources over the course of the study; however, this was dependent upon the mother not overtaxing that support system. Those mothers who relied almost extensively on family and/or friends to the exclusion of other available formal supports were more likely to report issues within the informal support network and lower levels of well-being. Formal supports were also widely used, although the diminished availability of formal support systems in rural locales impacted support choice for mothers, particularly in the cases of transportation and child care needs. While it is not possible to state that support levels had a direct, causal relationship with well-being levels, the findings suggested that the most well-adjusted mothers were those who had found a mix of supports that worked effectively and efficiently for them and their families. Previous research suggests the number of stressors in a mother’s life is a good indicator of her level of well-being, but the findings from this study argue that the receipt of any type of support is more important and a better indicator of well-being level than the number of needs or stressors. Implications for public policy and methods to improve support usage in rural mothers have also been discussed.

Degree

Ph.D.

Advisors

Wadsworth, Purdue University.

Subject Area

Womens studies|Individual & family studies|Public policy

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