The ability to function effectively within this environment will determine the extent to which individuals minimize risk and attain economic independence and a satisfactory quality of life. Those unable to cope due to educational deficiencies and poverty create a drain on revenues and rob the nation of its productive capacity. This research will generate information needed for decision-making, resulting in more effective economic and social policy to resolve societal problems, especially as it regards rural families and communities. Southern Relevance Demographic and economic change in the rural South has intensified the need for research that helps people make decisions and take actions to improve their quality of life. Empowering people and businesses to make more effective decisions is especially critical for the South, which has areas of rural decline, concentrations of persistent rural poor, and changing population dynamics.
Objectives Develop data on family economic and social viability.
Analyze influences on individual skills development within various household types and the life course of household members. Determine the impact of family interaction patterns, information acquisition, and resource management practices on family economic and social viability. Assess the interactions among technological changes, family functions, and adaption patterns. Enhance our understanding why some families are more capable than others in managing and recovering from hardships and catastrophes. Evaluate the impacts of policy on at-risk populations.