Effects of Welfare and Employment Policies on Adolescents with Younger Siblings: Exploring the Mini-Mom Phenomenon

JoAnn Hsueh, Manpower Demonstration Research Corporation (MDRC)
Lisa A. Gennetian, Manpower Demonstration Research Corporation (MDRC)

Emerging evidence indicates that low-income adolescents may be particularly vulnerable to policy-driven increases in maternal employment in the context of welfare reform. The current study examines whether sibling care accounts for the effects of welfare reform programs on low-income adolescents with younger siblings. Increases in maternal employment might increase the extent to which adolescents assume “adult” household responsibilities, such as caring for younger siblings. While assuming these responsibilities might enhance self-esteem and maturity, it is possible that these adolescents also feel fatigued and have less time to tend to school-related activities. To explore potentially competing processes, the current study uses data from five longitudinal experimental evaluations of welfare programs aimed at encouraging employment among low-income mothers. Predictors of sibling care are also explored as a complementary strategy to understanding its effects on adolescents. Preliminary findings are presented and the public release of this paper is schedule for June 2005.