Social Stigma of Single Mother Students and their Influence on Help-Seeking Behavior and life Satisfaction

This study aimed to determine the influence of social stigma on the help-seeking behavior and life satisfaction of single mother students. Specifically, it examines their demographic profile, the level of social stigma, the likelihood of help-seeking when experiencing personal, emotional, or suicidal problems and their degree of life satisfaction. It also tested for significant relationships and standardized scales such as the Young Parent Stigma Scale, General Help-seeking Questionnaire, and the Satisfaction with Life Scale, the data were analyzed using frequency distribution, general weighted mean, Pearson’s Correlation, Spearman-Order Correlation, and Multiple Regression Analysis. Results showed that most single mother students were aged 20-23, enrolled in college. With one child, and from families with income ranging from ₱15,000 to ₱99,000. The influence of stigma on help-seeking behavior was moderate. Respondents were somewhat likely to seek help, especially from parents and intimate partners, but were less inclined to approach professionals or use hotlines. Their life satisfaction was rated as slightly satisfied. No significant relationships were found between stigma and help-seeking behavior, or between help-seeking behavior and life satisfaction. The findings suggest that while stigma is present, it doesn’t significantly deter help-seeking or reduce life satisfaction. Other variables such as resilience and informal support systems may be more influential.