Understanding Coping Strategies of Mothers with Low Income

Mothers with few economic resources must cope with the ongoing stress of making ends meet while addressing their children’s needs. The study described in this report sought to improve understanding of how women in the United States meet their economic, personal, and social goals and focused on gender equity. The study documented the positive, active strategies that mothers with very young children and very few economic resources use to meet their caregiving and related needs. It also examined the role of community-based organizations in helping support these mothers and families. Insights from this analysis inform recommendations for how supporting organizations can in turn help mothers apply positive, active coping to their caregiving responsibilities, ultimately improving outcomes for their children.