The Structure And Functioning Of Social Support Systems Of Married, Single, And Divorced Mothers With Young Children

This study sought to describe more precisely the structure and functioning of the social support systems of mothers with young children. Married, single, and divorced mothers were compared in terms of the size of their social networks, their perceived amount of support, and the sources for differing types of support within that network. They were also compared on their adjustment to parenthood and levels of depression and anxiety. Married mothers were expected to have larger social networks and to perceive more support as well as to have better adjustment levels.