Understanding social support in the role transition of single mothers: A contextual and qualitative framework

Abstract

This conceptual paper proposes a qualitative framework to understand the role of social support in the role transition of single mothers. Grounded in Lazarus and Folkman’s theory of coping and integrated with Social Support Theory, the framework examines how emotional, informational, and instrumental support systems shape single mothers’ coping experiences during their transition to sole parenthood. The objective is to explore how personal, cultural, and societal factors interact with support mechanisms in influencing psychological well-being. By offering a narrative and theoretical synthesis rather than empirical testing, this paper presents a culturally informed perspective that reflects the unique socio-emotional realities of Malaysian single mothers, including those from diverse ethnic and socioeconomic backgrounds. Key challenges such as financial insecurity, social stigma, and lack of institutional support highlighted as critical areas where social support plays a mediating role. This framework emphasizes the contextual nature of coping and suggests that future research would benefit from qualitative methods such as in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to capture rich, lived experiences. Ultimately, the paper aims to guide research and practice toward developing more inclusive, context-sensitive interventions and policies tailored to the specific needs of single mothers in Malaysia.