Identifies three network types in single-parent families: family of origin network, extended network, and conjugal network. Findings indicate that network structure is associated with type of support, and that effects of structure and support on psychological well-being are mediated by a third variable, role orientation of the mother. (Author)

This study measured the likelihood of youth incarceration among adolescent males from father-absent households, using data from the National Longitudinal Survey of Youth (N=34,031 person-years). At baseline, the adolescents ranged from 14 to 17 years, and the incarceration outcome measure spanned ages 15 to 30 years. This study tested whether risk…

Examined the relationship between family headship and stress. Data from the Michigan Panel Study of Income Dynamics conclude that single female heads with children experience more stress than their married male counterparts. Higher incidence of major life events experienced by female heads is primarily a function of marital disruption. (Author/JAC)

Recent studies indicate that single mothers experience unusually high levels of psychological distress. The purpose of this paper is to compare rival explanations for these high levels. Four hypotheses are tested: (1) the psychological well-being of single mothers, relative to married parents, declines over time; (2) changes in psychological…