Problems of Clothing Elementary School Age Children in Families of Low- and Middle-Socioeconomic Status in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky: Comparisons and Recommendations

The study was designed to determine the problems that low and middle socioeconomic status families have in clothing their elementary school-age children. Comparisons were made of the consumer buying attitudes and practices of mothers of elementary school-age children from middle-and low-socioeconomic status families in Muhlenberg County, Kentucky. Differences between the groups were measured on a 92- item Likert scale questionnaire on the variables-planned buying, appropriateness, conformity, labeling, faulty merchandise, care, serviceability, comfort, and versatility. One-way analysis of variance was used to determine significant differences. The middle socioeconomic group indicated a more knowledgeable attitude on all the scales. Data from personal interviews using a hypothetical buying situation were collected from a subsample of the respondents. Differences between the two groups were noted in regard to sources of clothing acquisition, method of payment for clothing, and sewing skilling and resources. Members of the middle socioeconomic group were more knowledgeable of the middle socioeconomic group were more knowledgeable of the criteria for judging garments of good quality. The respondents indicated a need for more information concerning new fabric, construction alteration and repair, planning clothing purchase, and care of clothing