Factors That Contribute to Economic Well-Being in Female-Headed Households

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study assesses factors associated with female heads of households maintaining income levels above 100% of the federal poverty threshold. All women in the sample are single, divorced, separated or widowed, with children in the home, and none on public assistance. The data for the study are from the National Survey of Families and Households (NSFH), with a sample size of 670. The dependent variable, a dichotomous measure of whether the female head has an income over 100% of the federal poverty level, is regressed on human capital, assets, and child support variables using logistic regression analysis. Women with higher education, greater number of weeks worked in the previous year, more money in a savings account and who owned a car were all significantly more likely to have incomes above 100% of the federal poverty level. Child support payments were not significant in determining poverty level. The implications of these findings are discussed in light of current economic and political uncertainty.