DIFFERENCE BETWEEN SELF-SUFFICIENCY AND ECONOMIC VIABILITY IN WELFARE-TO-WORK RHETORIC

Abstract

The purpose of this paper is to examine the issues and implications raised when speaking of ‘self-sufficiency’ and ‘economic viability’ in welfare to work and provide an alternative context for discussing welfare-to-work programs and their success. Drawing on welfare-to-work literature, I clarify the difference between ‘self-sufficiency’ and ‘economic viability’ and discuss two main approaches used by welfare to work policy makers. Although both terms are used interchangeably, research that concludes welfare programs are successful is often misconstrued by (1) ambiguously defining these terms (2) and by inconsistent indicators and outcome measures of achievement. The major issues surrounding the improper use of these terms in welfare to work programs will be addressed followed by a discussion of its implications for adult educators.