Poster #7 - A Phenomenological Study of the Financial Experiences of Kinship Caregivers’ in Social Protection Programs

• In Event: Friday Poster Reception

Abstract

Background and Purpose: Because some biological parents cannot take care of their children, extended family members often step in to provide support. However, the financial burden associated with caring for children makes financial considerations central to caregiving decisions, although limited research has examined these dynamics. Guided by the theory of planned behavior, this study explored the financial realities of caregivers and its implication on their enrollment in social protection programs. The study addressed two research questions: (1) How does finance shape caregivers’ attitudes and perceptions about participation in social protection? and (2) How do these perceptions influence their willingness to enroll?
Methods: This phenomenological study uses data from the Kinship Guardianship Assistance Program (KinGAP), a U.S. child welfare program that provides financial support to relatives who become legal guardians of children who cannot live with their parents. Data was collected through 10 in-depth interviews with caregivers and five focus group discussions of 10 participants (with local Department of Social Services officials and service providers across North Carolina counties). Analyses followed open and axial coding procedures within a thematic analysis framework to identify patterns related to the financial context of caregiving decisions.      
Findings: Even though KinGAP is designed to provide financial assistance to sustain caregiving responsibilities and strengthen parental involvement, uptake of the program remains low. Thematic analysis revealed four main barriers to program uptake: (1) the cost of meeting licensing requirements, (2) fear of losing other government benefits, (3) family tensions over foster care payments, and (4) internalized stigma associated with being compensated for caring for family. These barriers illustrate how financial considerations are intertwined with moral meanings and family dynamics surrounding caregiving.   
Conclusion and Implication: The findings reveal access-related costs inhibit enrollment in social protection programs where people must complete training to participate. While financial support can encourage participation in such programs, the perceived costs, risks, and social stigma associated with participation can discourage program enrollment. Policies should aim to reduce up-front and hidden costs of licensure, mitigate benefit loss for caregivers, and align financial assistance with the moral and relational dimensions of caregiving. Findings also suggest that societal attitudes and poor policy designs can lead to stereotypes and associated internalized stigma which could derail interest. New policy innovations informed by stigma research are needed to change how social protection programs are experienced and perceived.

Author

• Jamal Appiah-Kubi, California State University San Bernardino
  Presenting Author