Conclusion

The term Solo Motherhood by Choice (SMBC) can be read as inadvertently contributing to single mother stigma; if the solo mother has a choice, it is suggested that the single mother has none. By studying the difference between the words “single” and “solo”, I will illustrate how the term “single mother” has been used historically to denote worthlessness whereas “solo” has been associated with skill. How can language be used to describe solo mother families without stigmatising other women?