Problem-Solving Scholars: Successfully Persisting Single Mother College Students

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 8
  In Roundtable Session: Sociopolitics of Parenting and Schooling

Abstract

To date, much of the research focused on single-mother college students has highlighted barriers to their persistence in college. Despite multiple barriers, however, many single-mother college students have successfully obtained their college degrees. Unfortunately, the research on successful single-mother college students is limited. Using the phenomenological case study method we addressed this deficiency in the literature by interviewing eleven single-mother college students and analyzing select observations and documents. Data analysis and interpretation yielded three themes (Life Continues, Life as a Puzzle, and Life Building). Also, a transcending essence was identified (Single-Mother College Students as Gymnasts).

Authors

• Michelle Kelly-Reeves, Texas Womens University

• Clifford P. Harbour, University of North Texas