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Mothers Left without a Man: Poverty and Single Parenthood in China

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  • Qin Li

    (School of Humanities, Jinan University, China)

Abstract

Most single-parent families in China are headed by women, and single mothers represent one of the fastest-growing groups living in poverty. Yet few studies have examined this group. This article seeks to better understand how (and why) single mothers are disadvantaged in China. Based on in-depth interviews conducted in Zhuhai, Guangzhou Province, it demonstrates that single mothers are left behind in four respects: lower income and worse economic conditions, lower employment and career development opportunities, worse physical and mental health, and poorer interpersonal relationships and less chance of remarriage. The causes of these disadvantages include Chinese family beliefs, a culture of maternal sacrifice, the traditional division of labour between men and women and social stereotypes about single mothers. The article highlights the impacts of Chinese familism culture on single mothers and advocates incorporating a gender perspective into the agenda of family policy and other relevant social policies in China.

Suggested Citation

  • Qin Li, 2020. "Mothers Left without a Man: Poverty and Single Parenthood in China," Social Inclusion, Cogitatio Press, vol. 8(2), pages 114-122.
    • Handle: RePEc:cog:socinc:v:8:y:2020:i:2:p:114-122
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. David Brady & Rebekah Burroway, 2012. "Targeting, Universalism, and Single-Mother Poverty: A Multilevel Analysis Across 18 Affluent Democracies," Demography, Springer;Population Association of America (PAA), vol. 49(2), pages 719-746, May.
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    Cited by:

    1. Robert Walker & Jane Millar, 2020. "Left Behind? The Status of Women in Contemporary China," Social Inclusion, Cogitatio Press, vol. 8(2), pages 1-9.

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