Single mother households are more likely to experience poverty due to a combination of economic, social, and structural factors. These include:
1. Single income: Single mothers typically have only one source of income, which is often not enough to meet the financial demands of raising children, especially if the mother is the primary caregiver and has limited access to high-paying jobs or opportunities for career advancement.
2. Childcare costs: The expense of childcare can be a significant financial burden, and single mothers may face challenges in accessing affordable or subsidized childcare services, which can limit their ability to work full-time or pursue higher-paying employment.
3. Wage gap: Women, on average, earn less than men, which exacerbates the financial strain for single mothers. This wage gap, combined with the lack of a second household income, increases the likelihood of poverty.
4. Educational and employment barriers: Single mothers may face challenges in obtaining education or vocational training due to time and financial constraints. These barriers can reduce their earning potential and job security.
5. Social stigma and discrimination: Single mothers may face social stigma and discrimination, which can limit their access to social networks, job opportunities, and other resources that could improve their financial situation.
6. Lack of supportive resources: Single mothers may lack access to family support systems or affordable housing, which can further strain their ability to manage financially.
These factors, combined with the responsibility of raising children alone, often make it more difficult for single mother households to achieve economic stability.
OpenAI. ChatGPT. Version 4, OpenAI, 2025, https://www.openai.com/chatgpt.
Poverty Advocacy Nanaimo 