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Journal of Public Health

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01-10-2005 | Review Article

Socioeconomic situation and health outcomes of single parents

Authors: Gudrun Neises, Christian Grüneberg

Published in: Journal of Public Health | Issue 5/2005

Abstract

Objective

Individualization and pluralization of lifestyles have led to a continually growing number of one-parent families (lone parents) in the Federal Republic of Germany. In 2003, there were approximately 2.4 million lone parents with children living in Germany. Over 80% of lone parents are women. The objective of this review is to summarize the scientific evidence concerning health outcomes and socioeconomic conditions of lone parents.

Methods

We performed a structured literature review to identify relevant studies. Scientific evidence of the past 14 years (1990–2004) was assessed and summarized in a review.

Results

It was particularly noticeable that, in comparison to married mothers, lone mothers more frequently showed evidence of mental disorders. Unfavourable income conditions, unemployment, dependency on social welfare and a low standard of education have a negative effect on the health outcomes of lone parents and their children. No reliable national and international evidence exists which permits a statement to be made about the health of lone fathers in comparison to married fathers or lone mothers.

Conclusion

Present scientific evidence indicates that there is a need for research and action to improve the health-related and socioeconomic situation of lone parents. Various programmes for lone parents have already been carried out with different degrees of success. In future, epidemiological studies have to compare “subgroups” in order to determine whether health-care opportunities among lone parents are more strongly influenced by marital status or by socioeconomic conditions. The results of these studies will influence the reasoning for the type and structure of supportive measures and finally the efficiency of the programmes.

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Title: Socioeconomic situation and health outcomes of single parents
Authors: Gudrun Neises
Christian Grüneberg
Publication date: 01-10-2005
Publisher: Springer-Verlag
Published in: Journal of Public Health / Issue 5/2005
Print ISSN: 2198-1833
Electronic ISSN: 1613-2238
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10389-005-0120-3

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Socioeconomic situation and health outcomes of single parents

Abstract

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

At a glance: The STEP trials

Springer Medicine

Abstract

Objective

Methods

Results

Conclusion

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