Exposure to Single Parenthood in Childhood and Later Mental Health, Educational, Economic, and Criminal Behavior Outcomes

The associations between the extent of exposure to single parenthood in childhood & later mental health, educational, economic, & criminal behaviour outcomes were examined, before & after controlling for potentially confounding factors. Analysis was based on a sample of 971 participants with available data on exposure to single parenthood from birth to 16 years. Duration of exposure to single parenthood was not significantly associated with depression, suicide ideation, suicide attempt, or substance abuse. After adjustment for confounding factors, the associations between exposure to single parenthood & most outcomes were explained. (38 refs)