Open AccessThe Multiple Roles of Low Income, Minority Women in the Family and Community: A Qualitative Investigation
Author(s) -
Avery Goldstein,
Wendy Reiboldt
Publication year - 2015
Publication title -
the qualitative report
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
ISSN - 2160-3715
DOI - 10.46743/2160-3715/2004.1927
Subject(s) - ethnography , qualitative research , variety (cybernetics) , focus group , data collection , sociology , service (business) , gerontology , psychology , medicine , social science , economy , anthropology , economics , artificial intelligence , computer science
This longitudinal, ethnographic research study was incepted to investigate service use among families living in poor urban communities. Themes that emerged during data collection focus on the variety of roles played by women, in the home, and in the neighborhood. We identified numerous strengths exhibited by women, that is, roles that help families adapt and survive. Over a two-year period, we spent time with families, in their homes, and in their communities. Not only did the women fulfill multiple roles in the family, but they performed care taking functions within the community as well. A more complete understanding of family and community strengths will help researchers and social service professionals better serve diverse families.