A Scientometric analysis of research on Single Mothers' Mental Health

Authors

Keywords:

Scientometric analysis, single mothers, mental health, wellbeing

Abstract

This study analyses research trends on the mental health of single mothers, a topic of significant importance due to its impact on parenting and the well-being of mothers and future generations. Single mothers face numerous vulnerabilities, which has encouraged extensive research on their socio-economic issues and to a certain extent their mental health worldwide. This bibliometric analysis examines the trends in research on the ‘mental health of single mothers’ as published in the Scopus database. Using a comprehensive search string, the data was analyzed with R Studio, VOSviewer, and Scientopy. The analysis reveals an increasing volume of published work on this topic, particularly from economically advanced countries. The thematic analysis identifies common themes emphasized by authors, including depression, poverty, anxiety, support systems, and parenting. The findings of this study provide valuable insights for future researchers, practitioners, and academics by highlighting key themes, sources, and contributing authors for further investigation and practical application.

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Author Biography

  • Renitta Manuel, Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous)
    1. Renitta Manuel is an Assistant Professor and a doctoral scholar at Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous) Kerala India. Completed Master of Philosophy (M.Phil.) in Social Work from Rajagiri College of Social Sciences (Autonomous) and Post-Graduation in Social Work (MSW) with specialisation in Family and Child Welfare. Her doctoral research is on the Social Reintegration of Women offenders in Kerala. Her publication ID is https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6691-0435

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Published

01.04.2025

Issue

Section

Original Research

How to Cite

SP, R., & Manuel, R. . (2025). A Scientometric analysis of research on Single Mothers’ Mental Health. Journal of Social Work Education and Practice, 10(2). https://jswep.in/index.php/jswep/article/view/338

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