Date of Conferral

2022

Degree

Doctor of Public Administration (D.P.A)

School

Public Policy and Administration

Advisor

Augusto Ferreros

Abstract

Though Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) beneficiaries receive appropriate training and education within a 5-year time limit, many encounter challenges finding and maintaining employment. In this qualitative case study, constraints hindering the employability of TANF benefits recipients were explored to understand how some TANF program benefit recipients find and keep a job after completing 5-year term limits. The central research question examined the types of constraints that recipients of TANF benefits in the state of Kentucky experienced in finding and maintaining employment after completing a five-year term limit, and how some TANF recipients overcome such constraints. The conceptual framework for this study was a theory of constraints and punctuated equilibrium theory. The sample included seven TANF benefit recipients from Kentucky who found a job after completing the 5-year term limit and successfully held the position for a minimum of 5 years. The data sources included semistructured interviews and documents provided by the partner organization. Yin’s five-step data analysis approach resulted in three themes: workplace norms and skillsets, barriers to employment, and case managers’ competency. The study findings could result in positive social change through strategies that TANF recipients could use to find and maintain work. Employment opportunities could decrease poverty and improve the standard of living of TANF beneficiaries.

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