The Work Preferences and Labor Force Participation of Rural Mothers

Amy E. Pirretti, Pennsylvania State University
Karina M. Shreffler, Pennsylvania State University
Stephanie Lanza
Ann Crouter

The current study proposes to examine employment, work preferences, and psychological outcomes of mothers in rural America. Factors such as the unavailability of employment and less stable family structures of those living in rural poverty lead us to expect to find that work preferences often do not meet current labor force participation. Some rural mothers may be underemployed, while others may have to work due to limited rural employment options for their partner or because of the absence of a partner. This study will focus on the unique circumstances of rural working mothers following the birth of a child, focusing special attention to how their employment or lack of employment affects their mental health during this distinctive time in the life course.