Women in Pursuit of Self-Sufficiency: Barriers Among Mothers in Poverty

Abstract

By Christian Haggins, Social Work

Advisor: Anjanette Wells

Abstract: The aim of this study was to to discover the greatest barriers for mothers in poverty striving to gain self-sufficiency and financial stability. Using secondary data from questionnaires and self-sufficiency matrixes, the research found that most of the participants reported mental barriers just as high, or higher than their physical or institutional barriers to self-sufficiency. This was not consistent with the research that focused on more concrete barriers for women in poverty. There is a lack of solid research in finding how an individuals confidence and self-esteem can impact their route to self-sufficiency, especially in single mothers.