Abstract

This study conducted an audience analysis investigating welfare attitudes for Welfare Services, a division of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The data and results of this study were used by Welfare Services to prepare and present its message to its Mormon and non-Mormon audience. The sample population consisted of 170 respondents (130 Mormons and 40 non-Mormons). The study examined three areas: (1) Where people go when in need of assistance; (2) Rights and obligations associated with assistance; (3) Attitudinal perspectives of welfare and assistance.

The findings of this study indicate that when in need, most people will first go to their families. Most people feel they have every right to ask and receive assistance from government agencies. Mormons report a right to receive help from their church; most non-Mormons do not feel a right to receive help from their respective churches. Most people report a willingness to repay assistance no matter who the assistance is received from. Welfare is viewed by most as a necessary evil. A major problem in receiving assistance is loss of self-esteem by welfare recipients.

Degree

College and Department

Fine Arts and Communications; Communications

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