Appropriate as supplemental reading for courses in Social Policy and Social Studies that examine the role of parenting in society. The subject of lone mothers is a controversial and highly topical social and political issue. This unique core text examines the key issues in the debate, and assesses their impact on the UK and other countries in a comprehensive and accessible way. Broad in scope, it covers a wide range of issues including gender roles, the relationship of the family and the state, and the relationship between social policy and labour market policy.
PART ONE. THE CONTEXT
1. Lone parent families today
2. The fall and rise of lone parenthood
3. Thinking about lone parenthood
4. . The role of the state
PART TWO. LONE PARENT FAMILIES AND SOCIAL POLICY
5. Poverty and social security
6. Work and employment
7. Care and welfare of children
8. Non-resident parents and child support
9. Health, housing and hardship
10. Conclusions
Appendix 1: Sources of quantitative data on lone parent families
Appendix 2: Useful internet sites
References
Index
