Reviews historical patterns in the employment of rural women and explains the policy implications of their unique labor market experiences. Analyzes current differences between rural and urban female employment, emphasizing the narrow range of occupations open to rural women and their resulting employment deprivation and vulnerability to poverty.…

Outlines the high incidence of poverty among the rural elderly, their sources of income, and their helping networks. Calls attention to rural-urban differences, farm/nonfarm resident distinctions, regional differences, and characteristics of recent immigrants versus long-term residents. Urges social work interventions that address the distinctive…

Examines current social policies and the extent to which they address rural needs. Focuses on primary issues raised by programs of social insurance, public assistance, and economic development. Notes differences between pre- and post-transfer income and their impact on self-sufficiency for rural populations. (JHZ)