The Dreams of Mothers: Implications of Sen’s Capability Approach for Single Mothers on Welfare

Seon Mi Kim, Chi Fang Wu, Rebecca Woodard

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

Abstract

Can we improve upon an income-driven approach for assisting poor single mothers? This study evaluates the No Limits program (Illinois) by applying Amatya Sen’s capabilities approach, which implies that the main purpose of welfare programs for single mothers should be to improve their capability to increase their opportunities beyond income. Using qualitative interviews with 16 single mothers who are participants of the program, this study investigates if and how No Limits provides participants with opportunities and resources to improve capabilities beyond income. Implications for welfare programs for single mothers suggested.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)267-283
Number of pages17
JournalJournal of Poverty
Volume24
Issue number4
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 6 2020

Keywords

  • Amartya Sen
  • Capability approach
  • single mother-s and povery
  • welfare programs

ASJC Scopus subject areas

  • Demography
  • Sociology and Political Science

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