1. Objectifs

Intentions :
« A mounting body of evidence indicates that lone mothers and their children are at higher risk of a variety of health problems. The dynamics of the relationship between social assistance, poverty and health are not well understood, and the study of this population presents substantial challenges. The purpose of this paper is to present an analysis of the state of research on lone parents, social assistance and health in an effort to make recommendations that will move the research forward. » (p. S4)

2. Méthode

Échantillon/Matériau :
« Reviews of the relevant literature and social policies were conducted to identify (1) trends in social assistance policy and the extent of interprovincial variation in policy, and (2) research gaps. A series of interviews were conducted with key informants in government, non-governmental organizations and academia to gather information regarding research obstacles, opportunities and priorities. Finally, a consensus-building workshop was held to form research recommendations. » (p. S4)

Instruments :
Guide d’entretien

Types de traitement des données :
Recension d’écrits et analyse de contenu

3. Résumé

« A substantial degree of variation exists among provinces and territories with regard to social assistance policies. The nature of the variation, however, is complex and does not fall into tightly defined categories. The variation creates the possibility for ’natural experiments’ to examine the health implications of policies and practices. The pace of policy change, however, creates problems with respect to evaluation of specific policy initiatives. Interviewees and workshop participants recognized substantial impediments to research in this area, particularly regarding the availability of appropriate data. » (p. S4)