Citation

Bartle E, Segura G. J. Poverty 2003; 7(1): 141-161.

Copyright

(Copyright © 2003, Informa - Taylor and Francis Group)

DOI

10.1300/J134v07n01_08

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

One aspect of the Personal Responsibility and Work Opportunity Reconciliation Act (PRWORA) of 1996 was explored through focus group interviews with public welfare (CalWORKS/TANF) participants in Los Angeles County. Women were asked how they learned about domestic violence, substance abuse, and mental health services from their caseworker in an effort to begin to evaluate implementation of the PRWORA in regards to these supportive services. The results describe how participants are receiving insufficient information, discouraged from seeking services, obtaining assistance from advocates other than caseworkers, and feeling general fear and distrust. Discussion centers on improvements in the system and training for caseworkers.