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Experienced poverty stigma is associated with food insecurity, mental health, and resource utilization among Southern US mothers with low income
Poverty stigma, which involves negative stereotypes based on socioeconomic status, may influence how food insecurity impacts mental health. However, this connection is not well understood. This study by Liebe et al. (2025) aimed to create and test a theory explaining how both internalized and experienced poverty stigma affect the relationship between food security and mental health among mothers in the Southern United States. In December 2023, researchers conducted a cross-sectional survey using Qualtrics, targeting mothers in the Southern U.S. with household incomes below 185% of the federal poverty line. The survey used validated instruments to measure food security, stigma, and symptoms of depression and anxiety. Among 1,008 mothers, average levels of both internalized and experienced poverty stigma were moderate. Lower food security was linked to greater internalized and experienced stigma. Experienced stigma was modestly related to symptoms of anxiety and depression. Using food pantries and receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) were both associated with higher experienced stigma. Poverty stigma may be a key factor in the link between food insecurity and mental health in low-income mothers. Addressing this stigma could help improve mental health outcomes and encourage more effective use of support resources. [NPID: Food security, poverty stigma, maternal health, mental health]
Year: 2025
