One Parent Families: Policy Options
Submitted by admin on Wed, 18/11/2009 - 5:13pm.
The increase in lone parenthood has been one of the most prominent demographic and social trends of the last 25 to 30 years.
The 'problem' of lone parenthood has been defined in various ways:
- As a social problem. Lone parenthood is seen by some as an inherently second-rate and
imperfect family type, reflecting the selfish choices of adults against the interests of children. - As a fiscal problem. Lone parenthood generates increased levels of public expenditure, most noticeably in respect of welfare benefits.
- As a problem of poverty. Lone-parent families have a very high risk of poverty and lone
parents and their children stay poor for longer than other families.
These competing definitions of the issues around lone parenthood have made it very difficult to take policy forward. However, an improved appreciation of the lives and situation of lone parents can explain the implications of particular policy options.
