Abstract
The object of this research was to identify structural characteristics of social networks and contextual factors associated with high levels of social support for married and single mothers in Sweden. The networks of 37 single and 43 married mothers were compared. Single mothers were receiving more instrumental and personal support than married mothers were, although their networks did not differ substantially in structure. Single mothers receiving the highest levels of support were employed full-time; had few children; had networks composed mainly offriends (rather than relatives, neighbors, or workmates); saw their network members frequently; and kept a balance of giving and taking in their relationships. Results were similar for married mothers except that reciprocity was less important for maintaining relationships and that neighbors were more important as a source of support. Findings are discussed in relation to the results of related studies done in the U.S.
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