This paper examines variations in response among
individuals to welfare reform policies. Findings of a two-year
qualitative study of welfare recipients are presented and a "person-centered
policy analysis" is employed to understand how the participant's
identity, or conception of self, has shaped the individual's response
to welfare reform. Three types of identities emerge: Nurturers,
Providers, and the Disaffected. While most study participants
transitioned from welfare to work, independence from welfare was
achieved in different ways according to one's self-identity. The
paper concludes with suggestions for policy implemen-tation targeted
at the specific needs of each identity type.
Dan A. Lewis, School
of Education and Social Policy, Northwestern University
Irene Carvalho, Program in Human Development
and Social Policy, Northwestern University
Bruce Nelson, Institute for Policy Research,
Northwestern University
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