Perceptions of self-esteem in a welfare-to-wellness-to-work program.
OBJECTIVE
The study investigates welfare recipients' perceptions of personal self-esteem in relationship with their participation in a welfare-to-wellness-to-work program.


METHODS
The cross-sectional, mixed-methods design examined a convenience sample of 33 participants who attended a welfare-to-wellness-to-work program called Work Wellness: The Basics that is based in an agency called Wellness Works!.


METHODS
A demographic survey, Rosenberg's Self-Esteem scale, and qualitative interviews were used.


RESULTS
Even with normal self-esteem scores, the participants credited the program with decreasing negative thoughts and improving self-esteem. The themes identified include program, self-esteem, mental health, and domestic violence.


CONCLUSIONS
Information about the benefits of a holistic wellness program and its relationship with self-reported enhanced self-esteem can be used to assist with health promotion, policy, and the development of innovative programs that assist with transition from public assistance.
Department of Nursing, California State University Stanislaus, Turlock, California 95382, USA. cmartin2@csustan.edu
Carolyn Thompson
CT
Martin
Judith L
JL
Keswick
Diane
D
Crayton
Paula
P
Leveck
D000223:Adaptation, Psychological; D000293:Adolescent; D000328:Adult; D003430:Cross-Sectional Studies; D017579:Domestic Violence; D005260:Female; D006293:Health Promotion / Q000379:methods*; D006801:Humans; D008297:Male; D008603:Mental Health; D008875:Middle Aged; D009788:Occupational Therapy / Q000523:psychology*; D010465:Perception / Q000502:physiology*; D011594:Psychometrics; D036301:Qualitative Research; D012649:Self Concept; D012944:Social Support; D012946:Social Welfare / Q000523:psychology*; D013637:Tape Recording; D055815:Young Adult