According to O'Neill, how do single parents (never married) tend to be categorized by socio-economic status?

The categorization of single parents, particularly those who have never married, as originating from working-class backgrounds is supported by sociological research that underlines the socio-economic challenges they often face. O’Neill's analysis indicates that these individuals typically have lower overall income and educational attainment compared to their married counterparts. This can lead to increased economic instability, making it difficult for them to secure higher-paying jobs and access resources that could improve their living conditions.

Additionally, working-class origins often correlate with limited access to social capital, financial support, and stable employment, all of which can further complicate the ability of single parents to improve their socio-economic status. Many single parents who have never married navigate a complex landscape of inadequate childcare, limited job security, and societal stigma, which reinforces their classification within the working-class. This perspective reveals broader trends observed in societal structures, where socio-economic status significantly impacts the experiences and opportunities available to single-parent households.