Healthy Single Parent Families

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to investigate characteristics of healthy single parent families. The variables that were measured included socio-economic status, social support, communication, religiousness, problem solving, and the physical and mental health status of single parents and their children. The effects of the sex of custodial parents and the custody arrangements on health outcomes were also analyzed. A multimethod, multivariable approach was used. A total of 84 subjects participated in this study. Data collection included the completion of questionnaires and an interview in the home setting. Single parents and their children reported fairly high levels of both physical and mental health. Communication, social support, socio-economic status, religiousness and problem solving were also correlated with the mental and physical health of parents and children. Implications for practice and education are discussed and recommendations for further study are made.