single mothers by choice

women typically in their 30s and 40s who opt to raise a child without a partner. It is estimated that more than 40% of single mothers have never been married and that the largest number of unmarried women now choosing single motherhood are college educated, usually with stable economic resources. They may become pregnant by accident and then decide to bear and raise the child alone; they may plan the pregnancy and conceive with a male or through artificial insemination, intending to enter single motherhood; or they may adopt and raise a child on their own.

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Psychology term of the day

May 9th 2024

ecosystemic approach

an approach to therapy that emphasizes the interaction between the individual or family and larger social contexts, such as schools, workplaces, and social agencies. The approach emphasizes interrelatedness and interdependency and derives from diverse fields, including psychology, sociology, anthropology, economics, and political science. Family therapy in particular, has made use of this approach in designing interventions for complex families and systems. See also ecological systems theory. [developed in psychology by Urie Bronfenbrenner]