Very little is known about family structures, maternal roles, and socioeconomic differences of families in the English-speaking Caribbean. These topics are especially relevant for the country of Guyana, which has one of the poorest economies in the Caribbean.

Situated between Suriname, Brazil, and Venezuela, Guyana has a population of 767,000 people and is roughly the size of Kansas. The population is comprised largely of East Indians, blacks, and a small group of Amerindians. The official language is English; however, four dialects, including Creole and Caribbean Hindustani, are also spoken.

Although rich in natural resources, Guyana is plagued with extreme poverty. Roughly 36 percent [Page 478]of Guyanese live below the national poverty line. Inequality, ethnic disparities, high child and maternal mortality rates, and disproportionate access to health care ...