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.

Rowlingson, Karen; Mckay, Stephen

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