Allostatic Load: Single Parents, Stress-Related Health Issues, and Social Care

Author: Johner, Randy L.

Source: Health and Social Work, Volume 32, Number 2, May 2007 , pp. 89-94(6)

Publisher: National Association of Social Workers

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Abstract:

This article explores the possible relationships between allostatic load (AL) and stress-related health issues in the low-income single-parent population, using both a population health perspective (PHP) and a biological framework. A PHP identifies associations among such factors as gender, income, employment, and social support and their potential effect on health outcomes. A PHP also recognizes physiological and pathological manifestations of the body such as stress (mental or somatic) and individual biological parameters (for example, glucose levels) as health determinants. AL uses an aggregate score of individual biological parameters as a health measure that is exacerbated through repetitive movement of physiologic systems under stress. The social work profession should incorporate knowledge of both PHP and AL into its theory and practice domains for effective care of vulnerable populations such as single-parent families.

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Keywords: ALLOSTATIC LOAD; SINGLE PARENTS; SOCIAL CARE; STRESS

Document Type: Research article

Publication date: 2007-05-01

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