Exploring Mothers’ Perspective on Transition to Single Motherhood and Health Outcomes.
Abstract
Almost 1 in 4 children in the United States live in a single-parent household, with the state of Georgia having one of the highest rates. The purpose of this qualitative research was to explore the experience of single mothers in Georgia and to assist in developing effective strategies to close the achievement gap. A total of 16 single mothers participated in in-depth interviews. The semi-structured guide was created based on research queries and the conceptual model of health effects of live transition. Three sections emerged: (1) Transitional Changes: women discussed that despite this experience being stressful and overwhelming and not having a choice compared to fathers, they felt empowered and independent. Women valued friendships and social support. Their social life was centered around their children. (2) Health Behaviors: mothers felt less active after the transition and tried to incorporate children into their physical activity routine. Nutrition improved and children were the priority when it came to nutritional choices. Many experienced anxiety and depression but used healthier stress-coping strategies after the transition. (3) Community Support: mothers found community events and support important, but wished to expand eligibility for services for working moms, daycare assistance, more supplies, less judgment from the community, and having a spokesperson to represent single mothers. Research indicated that despite financial, physical, social, and mental health challenges, single mothers showed resilience, adaptation, and personal growth. The results also suggest that there is a need for policies and interventions to address socioeconomic disparities and improve economic security to improve health outcomes. Considering the changing family structure, it might be time to change the narrative. Children can thrive in any family structure if they are growing up in caring, loving, committed, and stable families with adequate socioeconomic resources and social support.
Keywords
Mothers, children, single mothers, health outcomes.
Conflict of Interest Form
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Exploring Mothers’ Perspective on Transition to Single Motherhood and Health Outcomes.
Almost 1 in 4 children in the United States live in a single-parent household, with the state of Georgia having one of the highest rates. The purpose of this qualitative research was to explore the experience of single mothers in Georgia and to assist in developing effective strategies to close the achievement gap. A total of 16 single mothers participated in in-depth interviews. The semi-structured guide was created based on research queries and the conceptual model of health effects of live transition. Three sections emerged: (1) Transitional Changes: women discussed that despite this experience being stressful and overwhelming and not having a choice compared to fathers, they felt empowered and independent. Women valued friendships and social support. Their social life was centered around their children. (2) Health Behaviors: mothers felt less active after the transition and tried to incorporate children into their physical activity routine. Nutrition improved and children were the priority when it came to nutritional choices. Many experienced anxiety and depression but used healthier stress-coping strategies after the transition. (3) Community Support: mothers found community events and support important, but wished to expand eligibility for services for working moms, daycare assistance, more supplies, less judgment from the community, and having a spokesperson to represent single mothers. Research indicated that despite financial, physical, social, and mental health challenges, single mothers showed resilience, adaptation, and personal growth. The results also suggest that there is a need for policies and interventions to address socioeconomic disparities and improve economic security to improve health outcomes. Considering the changing family structure, it might be time to change the narrative. Children can thrive in any family structure if they are growing up in caring, loving, committed, and stable families with adequate socioeconomic resources and social support.
