how is 'the family' socially constructed in relation to welfare policy/practise?

Question

berger and luckman, government policy, social construction

Answer 1

Government welfare policy and practise is primarily to afford families opportunities in life whereby providing shortterm supports neccessary to live and to better themselves in order for them to be self sufficient. That is, the government will provide housing, food, financial assisstance, education and job opportunities TO HELP FAMILIES GET ON THEIR FEET.

It is not the intention or objective of governnments im sure to continue to give handouts to families so they can live this way forever.

In my view, should a family overlook the opportunities given to them then this is a form of abuse of the system and to the tax payers i.e. not accepting education, not accepting employment, a mother continously having children

However, its so easy for welfare to become a way of life for some families because they can become dependant on it so the government can be partially blamed for perpetuating this situation on society. The other alternative however would be to allow some of these families to live and die on the streets and be responsible for the increase in crimes.

In essance, welfare is responsible for helping low income families to succeed in life and to become good constructive members in society but is also responsible for creating an underclass in society.