Separation from a Parent during Childhood and Adult Socioeconomic Attainment

This study estimates the impact of a separation from a biological parent during childhood on adult socioeconomic attainment Data were drawn from the National Survey of Families and Households (NSFH). For white males, white females, black females, and, to a lesser extent, Hispanic females, respondents who experienced a separation had lower levels of attainment than those who lived continuously with both parents. However, no significant associations were observed for black males or Hispanic males. The estimated effects of parental absence on socioeconomic well-being were largely mediated by education and marital status. Overall, the data provide no support for the notion that growing up in a single parent family contributes to the low attainment of minority males.