Appalachian Migration Research Paper

Their seek for employment due to the lack or limited opportunities in Appalachians causes a migration patterns over the last 50 years. They migrated else where for work, visit their family on weekends and holidays. “ Their migration pattern is regional, where individuals from one area primarily migrate to the same urban areas as their relatives and friends, which helps decrease the occurrence of depression and feelings of isolation and provides a support network of family and friends. Purnell, p139.”

I can only imagine how difficult it would be to leave love ones behind while searching to provide a better life for them, My mother had to do that by leaving us children for America for a better life for us and to eventually take us out of poverty. Due to Appalachian custom, connection to the land and importance of family life they often return to their home town to retire.The migrants Appalachia had lower-status jobs, lower incomes, less education, and were more likely to be in poverty. They were becoming a refuge for low income, blue-collar workers with little formal education.

Issues related to autonomy in the workforce for Appalachians are that despite

They are less likely to seek help when ill unless the illness is encompasses their overall health such as the body, mind and the spirit. They less likely to be engage in health prevention activity nor willing to make changes for their overall health such as quitting smoking, drinking etc. They rather self medicate with home remedy that customs to them until their condition turn critical is when they will or might go see health provider for treatment. However, the past and tradition have a strong influence on present values and beliefs. Additional high risk behavior are also included methamphetamine, Marijuana, and oxycontin that are highly used in that