scholarly journals “You run out of hope:” An Exploration of Low-Income Parents’ Experiences with Food Insecurity using Photovoice

2021 ◽  
pp. 1-21
Author(s):  
Payge Lindow ◽  
Irene H. Yen ◽  
Mingyu Xiao ◽  
Cindy W. Leung
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
San Francisco ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Eating Behaviors ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Unhealthy Eating ◽  
Low Income Families ◽  
The Impact

ABSTRACT Objective: Using an adaption of the Photovoice method, this study explored how food insecurity affected parents’ ability to provide food for their family, their strategies for managing household food insecurity, and the impact of food insecurity on their well-being. Design: Parents submitted photos around their families’ experiences with food insecurity. Afterwards, they completed in-depth, semi-structured interviews about their photos. The interviews were transcribed and analyzed for thematic content using the constant comparative method. Setting: San Francisco Bay Area, California, USA. Subjects: 17 parents (14 mothers and 3 fathers) were recruited from a broader qualitative study on understanding the experiences of food insecurity in low-income families. Results: Four themes were identified from the parents’ photos and interviews. First, parents described multiple aspects of their food environment that promoted unhealthy eating behaviors. Second, parents shared strategies they employed to acquire food with limited resources. Third, parents expressed feelings of shame, guilt, and distress resulting from their experience of food insecurity. And finally, parents described treating their children to special foods to cultivate a sense of normalcy. Conclusions: Parents highlighted the external contributors and internal struggles of their experiences of food insecurity. Additional research to understand the experiences of the food-insecure families may help to improve nutrition interventions targeting this structurally vulnerable population.

scholarly journals The cost of school holidays for children from low income families

Childhood ◽  
2018 ◽  
Vol 25 (4) ◽  
pp. 516-529 ◽  
Author(s):  
Hilary Stewart ◽  
Nick Watson ◽  
Mhairi Campbell
Keyword(s):  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Children's Health ◽  
Children’S Health ◽  
Limited Access ◽  
Low Income Families ◽  
The Cost ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Health And Well Being

School holidays can be stressful periods for children from low-income families. Poor provision of appropriate childcare, limited access to enrichment activities, and food insecurity mean that children’s health and well-being can suffer and their learning stagnate or decline. This article examines and documents the evidence that has emerged on this topic and aims to raise its profile and the impact on children’s lives. It makes the case for further academic scrutiny of this unexamined and neglected subject.

Participant Perceptions of Character Concepts in a Physical Activity–Based Positive Youth Development Program

2016 ◽  
Vol 38 (5) ◽  
pp. 481-492 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shaina Riciputi ◽  
Meghan H. McDonough ◽  
Sarah Ullrich-French
Keyword(s):  
Physical Activity ◽  
Youth Development ◽  
Positive Youth Development ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Character Development ◽  
Development Program ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Low Income Families ◽  
The Impact

Physical activity–based positive youth development (PYD) programs often aim to foster character development. This study examined youth perspectives of character development curricula and the impact these activities have on their lives within and beyond the program. This case study examined youth from low-income families in a physical activity–based summer PYD program that integrated one character concept (respect, caring, responsibility, trust) in each of 4 weeks. Participants (N = 24) included a cross section of age, gender, ethnicity, and past program experience. Semi-structured interviews were analyzed using inductive thematic analysis and constant comparative methods. Thirteen themes were grouped in four categories: building highquality reciprocal relationships; intrapersonal improvement; moral reasoning and understanding; and rejection, resistance, and compliance. The findings provide participant-centered guidance for understanding youth personal and social development through physical activity in ways that are meaningful to participants, which is particularly needed for youth in low-income communities with limited youth programming.

scholarly journals The Psychological Distress of Food Insecurity: A Qualitative Study of the Experiences of Low-Income Parents and Their Coping Strategies

2020 ◽  
Vol 4 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 224-224
Author(s):  
Cindy Leung
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Psychological Distress ◽  
Qualitative Study ◽  
Health Outcomes ◽  
Food Insecurity ◽  
San Francisco ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Comparative Method ◽  
Mental Health Outcomes ◽  
Physical And Mental Health

Abstract Objectives Food insecurity increases the risks of numerous chronic disease and mental health outcomes in low-income adults; however, the mechanisms underlying these associations have not been clearly identified. Chronic, psychological stress may represent an important pathway between food insecurity and health. Using in-depth interviews, the objective of this qualitative study was to obtain a better understanding of psychological distress specific to food insecurity among adults. Methods We conducted one-on-one, semi-structured interviews with 48 parents recruited from the San Francisco Bay Area. Eligibility criteria included any experience of household food insecurity over the past 12 months, having a child in the family, and the ability to speak English fluently. An interview guide was developed by an interdisciplinary research team to specifically delve into the psychological experience of adult food insecurity. Interviews were audio-recorded, transcribed, and analyzed for thematic content using the constant comparative method. Results Parents discussed six themes related to the psychological distress of food insecurity: 1) anxiety about not having enough food to meet the needs of all family members, 2) frustration over the high costs of healthful foods (e.g., fruits and vegetables), 3) embarrassment about using community food assistance, 4) fear of running out of money for food and other necessities, 5) sadness about their cyclical and chronic food situation, and 6) guilt over the inability to adequately provide for their children. Strategies that parents used to cope with food insecurity included seeking help from family and friends, relying on their faith, distracting themselves from their current situation (e.g., sleeping, cleaning, drinking), and becoming increasingly tolerant of their food situation. Conclusions Food insecurity is a source of psychological distress among parents. Psychological distress may represent a pathway by which food insecurity influences physical and mental health outcomes. Funding Sources This study was supported by a grant from the Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Center for Child Health and Human Development.

scholarly journals Retailers’ perspectives on selling tobacco in a low-income San Francisco neighbourhood after California’s $2 tobacco tax increase

2018 ◽  
Vol 28 (6) ◽  
pp. 657-662 ◽  
Author(s):  
Gladis Chavez ◽  
Meredith Minkler ◽  
Patricia A McDaniel ◽  
Jessica Estrada ◽  
Ryan Thayer ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Tobacco Control ◽  
San Francisco ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Qualitative Content Analysis ◽  
Control Strategies ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Corner Store ◽  
Tobacco Tax ◽  
High Concentrations ◽  
The Impact

BackgroundCalifornia’s tobacco tax increased by $2.00 per pack in 2017. Although such increases are among the most effective tobacco control strategies, little is known about their impact from the perspective of corner store owners in low-income neighbourhoods with high concentrations of tobacco outlets.MethodsWe interviewed 38 corner store owners and managers in San Francisco’s Tenderloin, the district with the city’s highest tobacco outlet density, 60–90 days following implementation of the tax increase. Questions focused on perceptions of the impact of the higher tobacco tax on their revenues, customers and tobacco company promotions. We used qualitative content analysis to identify, compare and reconcile key themes.ResultsMost retailers reported a decline in cigarette sales, with customers buying fewer cigarettes, switching to cheaper brands or other products like marijuana, or trying to quit smoking. Retailers described challenges associated with running a small business and selling tobacco and concerns about selling a product that is ‘bad’ for customers’ health. Contrary to expectation, tobacco companies appeared to be offering few product promotions in this neighbourhood.ConclusionsSmall, independent retailers’ concerns, about selling tobacco and about the health and well-being of customers, suggest that such retailers may be important allies in tobacco control efforts,particularly those focused on the point-of-sale.

scholarly journals THE IMPACT OF FOOD INSECURITY ON THE HEALTH AND WELL-BEING OF OLDER ADULTS: THE GROUPS MOST AT RISK

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S738-S738
Author(s):  
Lauren E Popham ◽  
Erin McGovern
Keyword(s):  
Older Adults ◽  
Food Insecurity ◽  
Prescription Drugs ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Well Being ◽  
National Council ◽  
Assistance Program ◽  
Increased Risk ◽  
Nutrition Assistance ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Older adults who experience food insecurity (4.6 million) often have worse health outcomes. Food insecure older adults consume less nutrients, which puts them at greater risk of developing chronic diseases. They are at increased risk of falls due the impact of poor nutrition on muscle mass, bone density, and balance. Low-income older adults are often forced to choose between buying groceries and paying other bills. The Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) plays an important role in reducing food insecurity. SNAP enables older adults to buy the nutritious food they need, while freeing up resources to pay for everyday things to meet their health needs such as prescription drugs. Research shows that medication adherence increases when low-income older adults enroll in SNAP. Despite the beneficial impact of enrolling in SNAP, it’s estimated that 55% of eligible adults age 60 and older are not participating in this critical program. To understand which older adults are missing out on SNAP, the National Council on Aging engaged researchers at Leading Age LTSS Center at UMass Boston to analyze data from the 2014 Health and Retirement Study. The results show that some of the most vulnerable older adult populations are less likely to participate in SNAP even though they are eligible (i.e., Hispanic, age 75 and older, those who are not utilizing healthcare, etc.). The findings suggest that more targeted outreach to these groups is needed to ensure that the most vulnerable populations of older adults access this critical benefit.

scholarly journals POLICY SERIES: ADDRESSING LONELINESS AMONG OLDER ADULTS THROUGH RESEARCH, COMMUNITY PROGRAMS, AND A NEW FEDERAL POLICY AGENDA

2019 ◽  
Vol 3 (Supplement_1) ◽  
pp. S600-S600
Author(s):  
Erica Solway ◽  
Brian W Lindberg
Keyword(s):  
Mental Health ◽  
Older Adults ◽  
Life Expectancy ◽  
San Francisco ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Community Programs ◽  
Socially Isolated ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Millions of older adults experience feelings of loneliness. A growing body of research has found that chronic loneliness can impact memory, physical well-being, mental health, and life expectancy rivaling the impact on health outcomes of obesity and smoking. Loneliness has been found to impact memory, physical well-being, mental health, and life expectancy. In this session, GSA policy advisor Brian Lindberg will lead a data-driven discussion about who experiences loneliness and isolation and how we might create opportunities for connectedness through new areas of research, forward-thinking policies, and innovative community programs. Presenters include Erica Solway, associate director for the National Poll on Healthy Aging, who will highlight results from a poll conducted in October 2018 among a nationally representative sample of adults age 50 to 80 which found that more than one in three respondents felt a lack of companionships and more than one in four felt socially isolated. Then Catherine Spensley, Director of the Senior Division at Felton Institute, will describe lessons learned in developing and delivering culturally and linguistically appropriate programs and services that foster community and social connections among socially isolated, low income older adults in San Francisco. Finally, Andrew MacPherson, Principal at Healthsperien, LLC, and Director of the Coalition to End Social Isolation & Loneliness will describe stakeholder efforts to advocate for federal legislative and regulatory policy options to address the epidemic including increased funding for and access to supportive services, health care, technology, and public and private research initiatives.

scholarly journals WIC Is Critical During the COVID-19 Pandemic: Lessons Learned From Los Angeles County Participants

2021 ◽  
Vol 5 (Supplement_2) ◽  
pp. 205-205
Author(s):  
Lauren Au ◽  
Lorrene Ritchie ◽  
Nicole Vital ◽  
Marisa Tsai ◽  
Christopher Anderson ◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Los Angeles ◽  
Service Delivery ◽  
Nutrition Education ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Lessons Learned ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Safe Delivery ◽  
Funding Sources ◽  
Low Income Families ◽  
The Impact

Abstract Objectives The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the way that the Special Supplemental Nutrition Program for Women, Infants and Children (WIC) delivers services. The USDA granted multiple waivers to allow flexibility in WIC operations during the pandemic. The objective of this study was to hear from WIC participants about the impact of changes due to COVID-19. Methods In the summer of 2020, 60 semi-structured interviews were completed, half with English-speaking and half with Spanish-speaking WIC participants in the Los Angeles area. Interviews were recorded, transcribed, and analyzed using a deductive content analysis approach to describe responses and identify themes. Results Four themes emerged: 1) The pandemic has exacerbated the ckhallenges facing low-income families; 2) WIC continues to be a valued resource especially under the challenging circumstances; 3) WIC's transition to remote service delivery has ensured that families continue to receive not only critical WIC food benefits, but also nutrition education and support; 4) Lessons learned during COVID-19 can inform needed WIC modernizations to maximize WIC's proven benefits post-pandemic. Nearly 75% of WIC participants faced reductions in income due to job loss or reduced work hours. Nearly 60% of households reported experiencing food insecurity. Early in the pandemic, many reported challenges accessing WIC-eligible foods, resulting in lost food benefits. Approximately 43% reported getting food from a food pantry or church, with most (77%) reporting first time usage. Participants shared that even with the change to only remote education, they valued the information and were very satisfied with WIC services. The majority (83%) found the California WIC App helpful in informing what WIC foods they could purchase. Participants also reported that enrolling in WIC remotely was easier than coming in-person and they were comfortable providing documents related to income and eligibility determination remotely. Conclusions WIC has been essential in helping families cope with COVID. WIC's transition to remote service delivery has ensured seamless and safe delivery of services, helping families with young children during an unprecedented time of need. Funding Sources The David and Lucile Packard Foundation

scholarly journals FEATURES OF SOCIAL-PEDAGOGICAL WORK WITH CHILDREN FROM LOW-INCOME FAMILIES

2020 ◽  
Vol 65 (1) ◽  
pp. 337-341
Author(s):  
U. Kyyakbayeva ◽  
◽  
А. Iniyatova ◽  
T. Turdaly ◽  
◽  
...  
Keyword(s):  
Low Income ◽  
Social Situation ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Impact Factors ◽  
Spiritual World ◽  
Children And Parents ◽  
The Social ◽  
The Family ◽  
Low Income Families ◽  
The Impact

This article is not only about the peculiarities of the work of a social teacher with a low-income family, but also about improving the social status of children in the family, about organizing social assistance, about helping them in solving the problem independently, and deeper understanding of own spiritual world and organizing different events to join the ranks of society. Socio-economic problems in the country can not be solved because of different age characteristics, and factors that affect their lives, particularly, the impact factors on the child due to the improper relationship between children and parents in the family; insufficient well-being of children in society or school; isolation from the social environment due to the various depressions; the influence of a low social situation, etc. This affects the child's psychology and after these circumstances, the child's potential for inspiration will be reduced, such as education, training, the desire to live, empathy with the leader of society, and consequently,this article emphasizes the special moments of social and pedagogical work, based on the works of comprehensive foreign scientists.

Rising Family Income Inequality: The Importance of Sorting

2013 ◽  
Author(s):  
Debbie Reed ◽  
Maria Cancian
Keyword(s):  
Income Inequality ◽  
Low Income ◽  
Family Income ◽  
Well Being ◽  
The United States ◽  
Work Behavior ◽  
Middle Income ◽  
Income Sources ◽  
Low Income Families ◽  
The Impact

The distribution of family income reflects the distribution of personal income and the composition of families. We develop a non-parametric measure of the impact that changes in family income relationships have on the distribution of family income. Using data from Annual Social and Economic Supplement (the March files) of the Current Population Survey (CPS) (1968-2003), we find that changes in "income sorting" account for more than half of the increase in family income inequality in the United States over the last three decades. Furthermore, income sorting accounts for an even larger share of the growing gap between middle-income and low-income families. Our results demonstrate that understanding inequality of economic well-being requires going beyond labor earnings and other income sources to examine the composition and work behavior of families.

Thriving vs surviving: benefits of formal mentoring program on faculty well-being

2019 ◽  
Vol 8 (4) ◽  
pp. 378-396 ◽  
Author(s):  
Shanna Marie Stuckey ◽  
Brian Todd Collins ◽  
Shawn Patrick ◽  
Kathleen S. Grove ◽  
Etta Ward
Keyword(s):  
Comparative Method ◽  
Well Being ◽  
Mentoring Program ◽  
Underrepresented Minority ◽  
Structured Interviews ◽  
Formal Mentoring ◽  
Content Type ◽  
Indirect Benefits ◽  
The Impact ◽  
Formal Mentoring Program

Purpose The purpose of this paper is to describe current challenges faced by women and underrepresented minority faculty members, the benefits of mentoring programs, conceptual frameworks that highlight a wellness model and mentoring relationships and the findings from a mixed methods evaluation of a formal mentoring program (EMPOWER) that highlights the indirect benefits of such a program and the impact on faculty well-being. Design/methodology/approach This study was based on grounded theory, in which analysis was ongoing as data were collected and a variety of methods were used to building understanding. Measures included a survey and semi-structured interviews and focus groups. The thematic analysis of qualitative data was conducted utilizing the constant comparative method. Descriptive statistics were calculated for quantitative data. Findings Findings focus on the indirect benefits of EMPOWER including creation of a safe space, continued relationships between mentees and mentors, networking benefits, acculturation to the campus and a better understanding of organizational politics and how these can positively impact faculty well-being. Originality/value The benefits of this formal mentoring program, and the impact on faculty well-being, are important to acknowledge, understand and share with the broader research community and other institutions of higher education.

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