Study of one state's first-time welfare recipients found less evidence of welfare dependency than previously reported. Argues that client self-sufficiency hinges on an investment strategy in education, work preparedness, job training, and public-sector jobs, along with the provision of supportive services, such as child care. (RJM)

Welfare programs changed dramatically in 1996. Caseloads dropped by more than 9 million recipients over an eight-year period, and millions entered the labor market in the wake of these changes. Since the start of the "welfare revolution," research has emerged to document the new ways former welfare recipients are using federal…

The 1996 welfare reform made extended welfare stays more difficult. One of the most notable provisions was the 60-month lifetime limit on cash benefits through the Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) program. This study investigated the personal characteristics associated with accumulating more months on TANF. Using four waves of data…

Explores mothers' perceptions of child care under a job training program and the effects of program participation on their children. Findings suggest that some preschool children benefit from their mothers' participation due to an increase of new learning opportunities for the children and through the mothers' improved parenting abilities. (RJM)

Reviews services provided to 120 children (62 experimental and 58 control) by state welfare agencies. Finds that, over six years, children in the experimental groups required less supervision time, lived at home longer, and were in less-restrictive placements than those in the control group. (Author/JDM)

Presents the results of an evaluation of a family support program for female, long-term recipients of Aid to Families with Dependent Children. Findings show that program participants perceived that training had given them greater self-efficacy and competence, but not increased self-confidence, when compared to control group members. (RJM)