Rural Families and Work focuses on the findings of the Rural Families Speak research study and the theoretical frameworks that are utilized to examine the context of rural low-income families' employment. This volume provides a solid foundation for understanding rural employment problems and issues. Family ecological theory is the central framework with a discussion of theories that contribute to the opportunities for the contextual research, including family economic stress theory, human capital, human capability, and some selected policy frameworks. Employment is addressed through review of policy issues, community contexts, family and social support, and available resources. Throughout the volume future research directions and applications are highlighted.

The recent economic downturn has been especially devastating in America's rural areas, where low wages, sporadic seasonal work, and manufacturing industries moving their plants out of the U.S. are widespread, and grocery stores and health care services may be miles away. Many families eligible for government programs are unaware of them. The transition from welfare to work is made more difficult by not only the fewer employment opportunities, and the limited access to transportation and child care which keeps many who want to work locked in a catch-22 of unemployment. 

Rural Families and Work analyzes in context the issues and policies that have the greatest influence on rural employment. An overview of relevant theories provides a central starting point for discussion of work and its relationship to family and community well-being. Data from the Rural Families Speak project (including interview transcripts from study participants) illustrate the range of problems preventing rural families from finding and maintaining adequate employment. In addition, the book evaluates current proposals, pinpoints future directions for research and policy, and features discussion questions to help bring work-related issues into focus. Among the topics examined in detail: 

• The impact of TANF, EITC, and other aid programs.
• The challenges of child care for low-income rural mothers.
• Obstacles to employment: mental health problems and child health problems.
• The hunger-obesity paradox and other physical health issues.
• Social support and resource management among rural families.
• Food insecurity  between Latino and white populations.

With its in-depth framework for understanding this complex subject, Rural Families and Work is a valuable text for family relations professors and students, and a solid reference for researchers studying social policy and the economics of the family.

From the reviews:

"The book makes a fine contribution to the literature on rural families. It provides a rich discussion of the lives of rural families as they relate to work. ? The book is well written and organized. It is likely to become a standard read for many courses on rural families, work and public policy. The language of the book is not too academic, which also makes it ideal for policy makers and organizations serving rural communities." (Monique Constance-Huggins, Journal of Family and Economic Issues, Vol. 34, 2013)