Dietary Norms and Practices of Single Mothers in Japan

A Comparison between the Poor and the Non-poor

Abstract

Half of single mothers in Japan face economic poverty, yet little is known about their dietary habits. This study comprehensively analyses the dietary norms and practices of single mothers in Japan, with a specific focus on differences between the poor and non-poor, as well as distinctions between single mothers and the general population. Data were obtained from in-depth interviews with 53 single mothers living in urban areas. Despite their economic hardships, their dietary standards were not compromised. However, due to gendered ideals, their norm-practice gaps were greater (resulting in a decrease in well-being) compared to the general population.