Single parents, gender, and health inequalities

Previous studies have shown that single parents are a disadvantaged group in terms of health. However, we know relatively little about the influence of life course contexts on the health effects of single parenthood. 

In this event, Mine Kühn will draw on two papers, which investigate single mothers’ (and fathers’) health by using Danish and Finnish registry data. 

The first paper is based on high-quality register data of the total Danish population and 1) compares the mortality risk of single and partnered parents, and 2) investigates heterogeneity in mortality among single parents by considering pathways into single parenthood and repartnering. Results show that single fathers have the highest all-cause mortality risk of all parent groups. Repartnering diminishes the negative impact of single parenthood. 

The second paper analyses potential differences in antidepressant trajectories of single mothers by focusing on pathways into- and out of single motherhood. The authors used the total population registry data on Finnish women who experienced the life events of separation, widowhood, or childbirth. Single mothers were compared with women who experienced the same life event, but without becoming a single mother. Results indicate long-lasting effects on single mothers’ mental health.

This event will be particularly useful for those interested in single parents, gender, and health inequalities

This is a hybrid event and you can attend either virtually or in-person.

Related links

• QSS seminar series
• Quantitative Social Science (QSS)
• Centre for Longitudinal Studies (CLS)
• Social Research Institute