THE COPING STRATEGIES OF SINGLE FEMALE PARENTS IN ACCRA

This article examines the coping strategies of single female parents in Accra. Single female parents within Maamobi, New Dansoman and Roman Ridge areas in Accra were interviewed through in-depth interviews and a survey. Specifically, the study sought to find out the socio-economic factors that account for single female parenthood and how single female parents economically and socially support their households. The major findings are that divorce is principally responsible for single female parenthood mainly due to the infidelity of husbands. In the absence of men (husbands), single female parents although earning incomes which are low, bear the bulk of responsibility in the maintenance of children and the household. The fathers of the children of single female parents mostly do not assist the women in the maintenance of children. Kin of single female parents on the other hand mostly assist the women with housing and household chores. The study concludes that single female parents are to a great extent self-reliant in dealing with their responsibilities as parents.