Brief Estimating the Nonresident Parent Population in National Surveys
Kye Lippold
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Approximately one-third of all children in the United States live apart from a parent. To better understand the demographics and economic situation of nonresident parents, this brief provides estimates of nonresident parenthood using three nationally representative surveys. Depending on the data source, between 4.3 and 11.0 percent of men from age 15 to 44 are identified as nonresident fathers. The more limited questions on the Current Population Survey identify fewer nonresident fathers who are younger, less educated, never-married, and members of minority racial and ethnic groups relative to the more comprehensive National Survey of Family Growth.
Research Areas Families
Tags Family and household data Child support
Policy Centers Income and Benefits Policy Center