Single Mothers Research Paper

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Networking: Single Mothers within a Poor Neighborhood A major stigma in today’s society is the prevalence of single mothers in poor neighborhoods and its correlation to education of both the mothers and children. Not only is this affecting public school systems, but it is also affecting the role of women in society. Although single women in poverty is present in all parts of the country and world, an example of Highland Park of Des Moines, Iowa, is used to present specific data and ideas pertaining to the community and surrounding organizations of Des Moines, Iowa. Parenting is difficult enough for two individuals in a stable marriage let alone a single mother in a poor neighborhood with limited resources and opportunities. In order to advance …show more content…
Generally speaking, single mothers are willing to rise above the poverty line, but are unable to do so due to individual life circumstances such as education, childcare, or support from other individuals. A study done by Amanda L. Freeman and Lisa Dodson of Boston College investigated the benefits and drawbacks of Social Network Development for low-income single mothers. The major focus of this study was to bridge the gap among single mothers in their communities and encourage relationships with individuals or organizations not typically seen as resources by single mothers. The basis of the study was to observe how engaged participants were in the program and how it changed over time. The program focused on bridging social capital, spreading knowledge and professional contacts, and bridging relationships in low-income communities (Freeman and …show more content…
In my research to uncover the resilience of single mothers, Kjellstrand and Harper saw a stronger state of resilience within middle-income single mothers due to their potential for a better balanced life. Because low-income single mothers are often in their situations because they do not have the support or resources to better their situations, I believe a networking program would have a positive impact on their outlook. I also believe resilience would be seen in low-income single mothers because of their room for improvement and change. They would be able to really visualize and experience the increase in success and

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