An examination of resiliency factors and social support in middle- and upper-income single mothers
by Kjellstrand, Elizabeth K., Ph.D., ST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY (TEXAS), 2011, 136 pages; 3469145

Abstract:

This dissertation explores resiliency factors and social support in middle- and upper-income single mothers. The conceptualization of single mothers as poor, uneducated, lacking in social support, and a detriment to raising successful children has permeated societal beliefs. Current empirical research appears to lack studies exploring the resiliency factors and social support of single mothers and studies that focus on middle- and upper-income single mothers. A quantitative analysis was conducted to explore internal resiliency factors and external sources of social support in middle- and upper-income single mothers. The study used demographic information, the Connor-Davidson Resilience Scale (CD-RISC), and the Multidimensional Scale of Perceived Social Support (MSPSS) to examine if income, education level, or type of marital status is related to resiliency factors or sources of social support among single mothers. An ANOVA was conducted to compare group differences among income levels, education levels, and types of marital status with resiliency. Results revealed that the middle- and upper-income single mothers were generally resilient. A MANOVA was conducted to compare group differences among income levels, education levels, and types of marital status with three sources of social support: family, friends, and significant others. Results revealed that the middle- and upper-income single mothers received sufficient amounts of social support from family, friends, and significant others, with income accounting for 12% of the variance in social support subscale scores and no significant differences with regards to education level or type of marital status. A descriptive analysis of descending means revealed five resiliency factors on the CD-RISC that were most strongly rated, four of which relate to personal competence and tenacity. Implications for clinical practice and recommendations for future research to expand the body of research on single mothers were included in this study.

 
AdviserMelanie C. Harper
SchoolST. MARY'S UNIVERSITY (TEXAS)
SourceDAI/A 72-11, p. , Sep 2011
Source TypeDissertation
SubjectsWomen's studies; Counseling psychology; Gender studies
Publication Number3469145
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