The Effects of Nonresident Father Involvement on Single Black Mothers and Their Young Children

Using data from an ongoing study of current and former welfare recipients and their preschool children, the study discussed in this article examined the influence of the presence of nonresident fathers on the well-being and development of 188 low-income, employed and nonemployed single black mothers and their three- and four-year-old children. There is evidence that involvement by nonresident fathers has positive effects on maternal depression symptoms and child problem behaviors. The data show that maternal employment status seems to affect nonresident fathers' relations with single black mothers and their young children. It also seems to make a difference in the mothers' psychological well-being. Policy implications are discussed.