Single Mothers

... THE EFFECT ON CHILDREN In the first few years after a divorce, the children have higher rates of antisocial behavior, aggression, anxiety, and school problems than children in two parent families. However, some of these problems may be attributed to a decrease in available resources and adult supervision; many of the negative effects disappear when there is adequate supervision and income. In mother-only families, children tend to experience short-and long-term economic and psychological disadvantages; higher absentee rates at school, lower levels of education, and higher dropout rates (with boys more negatively affected than girls); and more delinquent activity, including alcohol and drug addiction. Children in single-mother homes are also more likely to experience health-related problems as a result of the decline in their living standard, including the lack of health insurance. Later, as children from single-parent families become adults, they are more likely to marry early, have children early, and divorce.

want to read more? →