---

Focusing on findings from the Rural Families Speak research study, this volume examines the theoretical frameworks involved with the employment of rural low-income families. Employment is studied via policy issues, community contexts, family and social support, and available resources.

---

Rural Families and Work focuses on the findings of the Rural Families Speak research study and the theoretical frameworks that are utilized to examine the context of rural low-income families´ employment.

This volume provides a solid foundation for understanding rural employment problems and issues. Family ecological theory is the central framework with a discussion of theories that contribute to the opportunities for the contextual research, including family economic stress theory, human capital, human capability, and some selected policy frameworks. Employment is addressed through review of policy issues, community contexts, family and social support, and available resources. Throughout the volume future research directions and applications are highlighted.

---

RURAL FAMILIES and WORK OVERVIEW.-THEORIES FOR STUDYING RURAL FAMILIES AND WORK.-RURAL DOES MATTER: UNDERSTANDING THE RURAL CONTEXT.-MAKING RURAL EMPLOYMENT WORK.-PHYSICAL HEALTH, FOOD SECURITY, AND ECONOMIC WELL-BEING: THE RURAL PERSPECTIVE.-INVISIBLE BARRIERS TO EMPLOYMENT: MENTAL AND BEHAVIORAL HEALTH PROBLEMS THAT HINDER SELF-SUFFICIENCY.-THE CHALLENGE OF CHILD CARE FOR RURAL LOW-INCOME MOTHERS.-RESOURCES AS THE KEY TO RURAL EMPLOYMENT.-"I DON´T KNOW HOW WE WOULD MAKE IT" - SOCIAL SUPPORT IN RURAL LOW-INCOME FAMILIES.-THE EARNED INCOME TAX CREDIT: AN INCENTIVE TO RURAL EMPLOYMENT.-APPLICATIONS FOR THE RFS FINDINGS: PROGRAMS AND FUTURE RESEARCH.-POLICY ISSUES AND APPLICATIONS: RURAL CONCERNS.-Appendix A: A BRIEF HISTORY OF RURAL FAMILIES SPEAK PROJECT.-Appendix B: RURAL FAMILIES SPEAK WORK CITED

---

From the reviews:
"The book makes a fine contribution to the literature on rural families. It provides a rich discussion of the lives of rural families as they relate to work. ... The book is well written and organized. It is likely to become a standard read for many courses on rural families, work and public policy. The language of the book is not too academic, which also makes it ideal for policy makers and organizations serving rural communities." (Monique Constance-Huggins, Journal of Family and Economic Issues, Vol. 34, 2013)

---