Social capital: who extends supports for the single mothers?

Abstract

Social capital encompasses of certain resources available to an individual thorough their membership in the community or group (Giorgas, 2000). Social capital within the family is especially important in overcoming deficiences in other types of capital such as human and economic resources (Coleman, 1998), especially among single-mother as single motherhood means shouldering family responsibilities alone and having greater likelihood of becoming poor. The objectives of the study are to examine sources and types of support received and expected by single mother, and their perception towards their support network upon becoming single mothers. A study that examines the social capital or network of single mothers is vital in ensuring appropriate supports that can effectively enhance their well being are extended by relevant parties. Hence, children in such families will not be deprived of good future and opportunities. A total of 700 respondents participated in the study which was conducted in the Northern, Southern, Eastern and central regions of the Peninsula.