Categorizing care: Social workers’ differential attitudes and support for distinct categories of single mothers

Abstract Single mothers are often perceived in the literature as a homogeneous group. In this study, we examine whether social workers have different perceptions of single mothers from distinct categories—divorced, widowed, and separated—and whether this is manifested in differences in the support and services provided. Based on in-depth interviews with nineteen Arab social workers employed in public social service departments in Israel, the analysis uncovers a critical and overlooked phenomenon: social workers provide varying types of support and services to different categories of single mothers, often shaped by their personal perceptions and emotions rather than formal professional guidelines. For instance, widowed mothers, seen as victims of unavoidable loss, often receive greater emotional support. In contrast, divorced mothers, perceived as having chosen their situation, face higher scrutiny and expectations of workforce participation, while separated mothers evoke mixed responses, reflecting unresolved circumstances. These findings highlight the ‘categorization of care’, wherein social workers informally categorize single mothers into subgroups in ways that may reinforce unequal treatment. Based on these findings, we discuss the need for equitable social policies that recognize the distinct needs of each subcategory while ensuring fair and appropriate support for all.