The Wealth of Nations and the Happiness of Nations: Why “Accounting” Matters

We review income-happiness research in light of competing theoretical frameworks, unit of analysis, and methodological issues. Within-countries, absolute income is weakly related to happiness, comparison effects depend on the measure utilized, and income change and perceived income produce inconsistent findings. Across countries, absolute income is a stronger predictor of happiness, different comparison effects are significant, income change results are predominantly positive, and the financial-life satisfaction relationship is more robust.     

Index of Authors Volume 64, 2003

Social Indicators Research -     

"We'll Figure a Way": Teenage Mothers' Experiences in Shifting Social and Economic Contexts

The current economic and social context calls for a renewed assessment of the consequences of an early transition to parenthood. In interviews with 55 teenage mothers in Colorado, we find that they are experiencing severe economic and social strains. Financially, although most are receiving substantial help from family members and sometimes their children's fathers, basic needs often remain unmet. Macroeconomic and family structure trends have resulted in deprived material circumstances, while welfare reform and other changes have reduced the availability of aid. Socially, families' and communities' disapproval of early childbearing negatively influences the support young mothers receive, their social interactions, and their experiences with social institutions.     

Access visits: Perceptions of child protection workers, foster parents and children who are Crown wards

Objective

To report findings from a study of the perceptions of foster parents, child protection workers and children regarding supervised access visits for children who are permanent wards (Crown wards).

Methods

Interviews were conducted with twenty-four Crown wards having regular supervised access visits. Eight focus groups were conducted with twenty-four foster parents, and twenty-six child protection workers. Interviews and focus groups explored perspectives regarding supervised access visits. Interviews and focus groups were transcribed, coded, and thematically analyzed. Negative case analysis, prolonged engagement, and triangulation contributed to the trustworthiness of the research.

Results

While this study is explorative, findings suggest considerable dissatisfaction regarding access visits among foster parents and workers, inadequate training for workers and foster parents, poor communication and consultation regarding access visits, and confusion regarding the roles of supervisors.

Conclusions

The data suggest several possible explanations for children's distress associated with access visits including lack of communication among access supervisors, workers and foster parents; insufficient training for workers who supervise visits; and a lack of validation of the children's contradictory feelings towards their mothers.

Practice implications

Findings suggest the need for more consultation with and inclusion of foster parents in access visits. More training is required for workers supervising access visits including whether and how it is beneficial for children to express their feelings and address potentially difficult topics regarding their biological family members.     

Using Readiness Assessment to Improve Career Services: A Cognitive Information‐Processing Approach

This article begins with a review of the use of readiness assessment measures as a strategy for improving career services. A 5‐step process model for readiness assessment is then proposed and current readiness measures are identified. Although considerable research has been conducted on career decision‐making readiness and numerous measures have been developed, there has been limited literature available on the application of readiness assessment in selecting career interventions to meet specific client needs. This article continues with a theory‐based conceptualization of readiness and then links readiness assessment to the selection of career interventions designed to meet clients' needs.     

Ambiguity and Cooperation in the Implementation of Adult Protection Policy

Using a classification of public policy developed by Matland, we examine implementation of policy on adult protection as outlined in ‘No Secrets’, the government's guidance to local agencies. This policy appears to exemplify a ‘high‐ambiguity/low‐conflict’ model. Detailed interviews with staff charged with developing multi‐agency procedures, in local authority departments, health authorities, the police and the voluntary sector, confirmed the ambiguity of the policy and the uncertainty experienced by staff as a consequence. However, the interviews also revealed a number of areas of conflict, particularly as people gave precedence to their own professional norms and organizational priorities over partnership working.     

‘Actually There is a Brain in There’: Uncovering Complexity in Pathways Through Education for Young Adults Who Have Been in Care

Internationally, research has highlighted disruption to the educational trajectories of young people in care, documenting concern about upheaval and poor educational outcomes. We present findings from English data arising from qualitative longitudinal research with care experienced people (16–32 years) who were also in education, employment or training. The analysis extends understanding of the experiences of those who achieve educational ‘success’, including those who followed non‐linear trajectories. The need for a flexible education system, and leaving care entitlements, which take into account the disruption experienced by young people in care and the consequent possibility of delayed educational pathways, is discussed.