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Published

2022-04-27

Issue

Vol. 7 No. 1 (2022)

Section

Commentaries

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How to Cite

Hamilton, L. (2022). Stricter Welfare Rules Are Not The Solution To Poverty. Environment and Social Psychology, 7(1). https://doi.org/10.18063/esp.v7.i1.687

Stricter Welfare Rules Are Not The Solution To Poverty

Leah Hamilton

Appalachian State University


DOI: https://doi.org/10.18063/esp.v7.i1.687


Keywords: Poverty, Welfare, Financial Incentives

Abstract

Over the past three decades, American welfare policy has moved towards ever more restrictive eligibility criteria, reflecting a growing belief that generous benefits encourage dependence. In this essay, I argue that harsher welfare rules actually make it more difficult for low income families to support their children, transition to work and maintain long term financial independence. In some cases such as drug testing, these rules represent an unconstitional intrusion into the lives of citizens and are ultimately a waste of government resources. Moving towards a model of support rather than punishment for families in need would be an ultimately more effective method of poverty alleviation.

Author Biography

Leah Hamilton, Appalachian State University

Leah Hamilton is an Assistant Professor of Social Work at Appalachian State University in Boone, NC, USA. She received her BSW from Metropolitan State College of Denver in 2005, her MSW from the University of Denver in 2006 and a PhD in Public Policy at the University of Arkansas in 2011. She served as a Foster Care Case Worker and trainer for five years in Denver, Colorado. Dr. Hamilton’s research interests include poverty, child welfare and social policy.

References

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