Full Citation

Title: Evaluating evolutionary changes in state TANF policies

Citation Type: Journal Article

Publication Year: 2012

ISBN:

ISSN:

DOI: 10.1080/13504851.2011.650326

NSFID:

PMCID:

PMID:

Abstract: Over the past decade narrowly focused studies have evaluated the effectiveness of state-level welfare policies. In general, they evaluate reforms within a particular state, focus on a small number of outcome variables (usually caseload levels) and/or use a very narrowly defined time period. This narrow and partial analysis is perplexing, from an institutional perspective, as Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) forces states into a zero-sum funding game, where shares depend on differential relative success in achieving policy objectives metrics. This institutional structure incentivizes states to mimic and improve upon more successful counterparts to recapture a larger share of TANF block grants. Given this dynamic institutional structure, an evolutionary evaluation of state TANF programmes is warranted. This article uses cluster analysis to explore evolutionary changes in state TANF policies (as characterized by a comprehensive set of outcome variables) immediately following the imposition of T...

Url: http://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13504851.2011.650326

User Submitted?: No

Authors: Snarr, Hal W.; Friesner, Dan; Underwood, Daniel A.

Periodical (Full): Applied Economics Letters

Issue: 17

Volume: 19

Pages: 1753-1758

Data Collections: IPUMS CPS

Topics: Other, Poverty and Welfare

Countries: