1.1 Introduction
Socio-economic status and livelihood prospects of single parenting among single mothers refers to the examination of the economic, social, and educational circumstances of single mothers, as well as their prospects for securing stable employment, achieving financial independence, and providing for themselves and their children in the absence of a partner.
Gupta (2013) articulated that the socio-economic status of single mothers is often characterized by financial instability, limited educational attainment, and reduced access to employment opportunities. Research indicates that single mothers are more likely to experience poverty compared to their married counterparts, with household income levels significantly lower in single-parent households (Gupta, 2013).
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Single motherhood, characterized by the absence of a partner due to divorce, separation, or the death of a spouse, represents a significant demographic trend globally. The phenomenon of single parenting among single mothers is influenced by various socio-economic factors and presents unique challenges that can impact both maternal well-being and child development. Understanding the socio-economic status and livelihood prospects of single mothers is crucial for addressing the needs of this vulnerable population and implementing targeted interventions to support their economic empowerment.
According to Mendenhall et al., (2012), the economic empowerment of single mothers plays a crucial role in enhancing their livelihood prospects and overall well-being. Access to education, vocational training, and employment opportunities can empower single mothers to achieve financial independence and provide for themselves and their children (Mendenhall et al., 2012). However, systemic barriers such as gender discrimination, lack of affordable childcare, and limited access to supportive social services can hinder single mothers' ability to secure stable employment and advance their careers (Collins et al., 2017).
Research indicates that single mothers often face economic hardship and financial instability compared to their married counterparts. Gupta (2013) found that single mothers are more likely to experience poverty, with lower household income levels and limited access to resources and support systems. Moreover, single mothers may have lower levels of educational attainment, which can further contribute to economic vulnerability and limited employment opportunities (Collins et al., 2017).
Single parenting homes have failed to effectively play the role of both parenting families and this has in many ways affected the child academically, mentally, morally and socially. The area boys/girls phenomenon is a factor that stands out as a problem in the society and is often associated with single-parenting families Nnah (2000). Osarenren (2005) said that many children who were reared in either mother-only or father-only families suffer setbacks in their academic achievement than those brought in intact homes due to the absence of one parent.
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the Socio-economic Status and Livelihood Prospects of Single Parenting Among Single Mothers.
1.3 Statement of Problems
An investigation found that despite the increasing prevalence of single motherhood, many single mothers experience economic hardship and struggle to meet the basic needs of their families. Research by Gupta (2013) highlights the higher likelihood of poverty among single mothers compared to married counterparts, emphasizing the urgent need to address economic vulnerabilities within this demographic group.
Additionally, single mothers often face barriers in accessing education and securing stable employment, which can perpetuate cycles of poverty and economic dependence. Collins et al. (2017) discuss the intersectional nature of these challenges, noting that factors such as gender discrimination and lack of affordable childcare contribute to limited economic prospects for single mothers.
Furthermore, the financial struggles that single moms encounter can be made worse by structural obstacles like housing discrimination and welfare rules, which furthers the cycle of poverty (Collins et al., 2017). These statements of problems highlight the multifaceted nature of socio-economic challenges faced by single mothers and underscore the need for comprehensive interventions to address economic vulnerabilities and promote livelihood prospects within this demographic group.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to examine the Socio-economic Status and Livelihood Prospects of Single Parenting Among Single Mothers using Abi local Government Area Cross Rivers State as a case study. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To assess the socio-economic characteristics of single mothers, including income levels, educational attainment, and employment status;
- To identify the challenges and barriers faced by single mothers in achieving economic stability and financial independence;
- To explore the impact of socio-economic status on the well-being and livelihood prospects of single mothers and their children; and
- To examine potential strategies and interventions for promoting economic empowerment and improving the socio-economic outcomes of single mothers.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What are the socio-economic characteristics of single mothers, including income levels, educational attainment, and employment status?
- What are the challenges and barriers faced by single mothers in achieving economic stability and financial independence?
- What is the impact of socio-economic status on the well-being and livelihood prospects of single mothers and their children?
- What are the potential strategies and interventions for promoting economic empowerment and improving the socio-economic outcomes of single mothers?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: Single mothers who have access to supportive social networks and community resources will not exhibit higher levels of socio-economic stability and have better livelihood prospects compared to those who lack such support.
- H1: Single mothers who have access to supportive social networks and community resources will exhibit higher levels of socio-economic stability and have better livelihood prospects compared to those who lack such support.
1.7 Significance of Study
The significance of studying "Socio-economic Status and Livelihood Prospects of Single Parenting among Single Mothers" lies in its potential to address pressing social, economic, and public health concerns. Here are some key points highlighting its significance:
- Addressing Poverty and Inequality: Single motherhood is often associated with higher rates of poverty and economic vulnerability. By understanding the socio-economic status and livelihood prospects of single mothers, policymakers, and social service providers can develop targeted interventions to alleviate poverty and reduce inequality within this demographic group.
- Promoting Gender Equality: Single mothers disproportionately bear the responsibility of childcare and household maintenance, which can limit their ability to pursue education and employment opportunities. Studying the socio-economic factors affecting single mothers can shed light on gender disparities in the workforce and inform policies aimed at promoting gender equality and work-life balance.
- Supporting Family Well-being: Single-parent households face unique challenges in providing for the needs of children. By identifying factors that contribute to socio-economic stability and livelihood prospects among single mothers, researchers can inform strategies to support family well-being and improve outcomes for both single mothers and their children.
- Informing Policy and Practice: Research on the socio-economic status of single mothers can inform the development of evidence-based policies and programs aimed at addressing the needs of this vulnerable population. This includes initiatives to expand access to affordable childcare, improve educational opportunities, and provide economic support for single-parent households.
- Enhancing Public Health: Socio-economic factors have a significant impact on health outcomes for single mothers and their children. By understanding the socio-economic determinants of health among single-parent households, public health efforts can be directed towards addressing disparities and promoting holistic well-being.
Furthermore, this study will be extremely helpful to researchers who want to learn more about it, and non-researchers can utilize it to further their own research. This research advances our understanding and may function as a model for future investigations.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the Socio-economic Status and Livelihood Prospects of Single Parenting Among Single Mothers using Abi local Government Area Cross Rivers State as a case study.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Research Material: availability of research material is a major setback to the scope of the study.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
