Effect of the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) Work Mandate among Drug Users
Isaac D. Montoya
DOI: 10.2190/K703-V540-2768-0683
Abstract
The present study examined the independent effects of work-activity-participation status (whether a welfare recipient is required to work or is exempt from such requirements) on employment, receipt of cash welfare benefits known as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF), and psychological functioning. The sample consisted of 228 female TANF recipients, 75 of whom were chronic drug users. Participants were administered self-report instruments to measure self-perceived work skills and barriers to employment, drug use, employment-related variables, TANF receipt, and psychological functioning. Contrary to the tested study hypotheses, results show that the work mandate was not significantly related to employment and was positively related to TANF receipt. The work mandate showed no effect on psychological distress. Aside from initial psychological functioning, self-perceived employment barriers had the only significant impact on change in psychological functioning. Self-perceived office skills was a significant predictor of higher wages earned and less time to employment. It is concluded that training recipient in office skills training while continuing to address other barriers may be the best approach to accomplishing the goals of welfare reform.
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