Social capital and the informal support networks of lone white mothers of mixed-parentage children

Abstract

This paper draws upon in-depth interviews with thirty lone white mothers of mixed-parentage children in Britain in order to analyse the range of informal support networks that mothers utilize in their parenting. The findings show that while racism impacted upon mothers' support networks, their parenting experiences also led to an impetus to enlarge these networks, for example through support groups, friendships with people from minority ethnic backgrounds and other interracial families. The close friendships between lone white mothers of mixed-parentage children were particularly valued for non-judgemental support and empathy and it is argued that they constitute a form of bonding capital.

Keywords:

• social capital
• social networks
• social identities
• interracial families, inter-ethnic relations, multi-ethnic

Acknowledgements

The author would like to thank the research participants. This research was funded by the Economic and Social Research Council (Award no. PTA033200200051).