Heterosexual and lesbian single mothers: a comparison of problems, coping, and solutions

Expertise regarding lesbian mothers is increasingly necessary to members of the legal and helping professions, but there is little empirical research on which to base informed decisions. This paper describes an exploratory study undertaken in response to these needs. Descriptive data were gathered on the everyday experiences of heterosexual and lesbian single mothers. Research methods included participant observation in a wide range of discussion groups and group activities, in-depth interviews, and a questionnaire. Using a phenomenological perspective, comparisons are drawn between heterosexual and lesbian respondents' adaptations to three common concerns: child custody, housing, and employment. While both groups report oppression in the areas of freedom of association, employment, housing, and child custody, the degree of perceived oppression is greater for lesbian mothers. Lesbian mothers exhibit patterns of behavior that may be responses to perceived oppression and that may serve to counterbalance felt difficulties by developing relatively higher levels of independence.