An Analysis of Employment Policies and their Effect on Work-Life Balance for Caregiving Parents of Children with Special Needs

Author

Sara Panella, University of Southern Maine, Muskie School of Public Service

Date of Award

12-2013

Document Type

Capstone

Degree Name

Master of Public Policy and Management (PPM)

Department

Public Policy and Management

First Advisor

Prof. Lisa Morris

Keywords

special needs, stress, work-life balance, Muskie School of Public Service

Abstract

This capstone addresses the work-­‐life conflict facing employed caregiver parents with special needs children by 1) identifying what employed parents of children with disabilities need from their employer in order to achieve a work-­‐life balance that improves economic security and emotional well-­‐being, and 2) evaluating how well policies address those needs. An investigation of work-­‐family conflict and stress among parents of special needs children is conducted by examining the current literature and conducting interviews with caregivers to explore their work-­‐life balance needs. Policy recommendations are provided, based on an analysis of public and workplace policies currently in use and policy innovations recommended by policy scholars to improve work-­‐life balance among employed caregiving parents.

Recommended Citation

Panella, Sara, "An Analysis of Employment Policies and their Effect on Work-Life Balance for Caregiving Parents of Children with Special Needs" (2013). Muskie School Capstones and Dissertations. 77.
https://digitalcommons.usm.maine.edu/muskie_capstones/77