Understanding the perceptions of low-income American working mothers in rural areas: exploratory analysis of relative care

Abstract

ABSTRACT Informal childcare has a significant impact on the economic and social conditions of low-income families. However, as opposed to formal childcare, there is a lack of studies about relative care and its impact on working mothers. This study used the extended ethnographic comparative case method and analytical induction methodology to analyze in-depth interviews of 18 American females selected by purposive and convenient sampling: nine low-income working mothers living in a rural Midwestern area and another nine relatives who provided childcare. Low-income working mothers selected relative care because of children’s safety, the trustworthiness of caretakers, doubt in the quality of daycare, and relative care’s affordability. All mothers were satisfied with the activities offered by relative care. Outcomes supported that relative care helped mothers’ psychological, emotional, and economic well-being. The results of the caretakers were mixed. While some relatives addressed their complete happiness, others stated that providing care reduced their time and resources. Social workers need to understand the functions of extended family networks in rural areas, which have limited resources. The U.S. government should consider providing financial incentives for relatives who spend their time and energy assisting working mothers, as well as childcare subsidies for low-income families who rely on relative care.