Expecting to work, fearing homelessness: The possible selves of low-income mothers

Abstract

We explored the content of possible selves of low-income mothers and the strategies they have to work on their possible selves. Positive expected possible selves focus on getting a job, making ends meet, and caregiving. Negative to-be-avoided possible selves focus on failing to make ends meet, losing (or not getting) jobs, and problems with mental health. Immediate social context—rather than demographic characteristics or global work–family variables—was associated with content of possible selves. Controlling for demographic and work–family variables, job-focused possible selves (and strategies to attain them) were more salient; and caregiving and mental-health-related possible selves were less salient to mothers in job-training programs vs. welfare offices.