Conservatives often argue that social welfare programs encourage single motherhood and illegitimacy by replacing the necessity of marriage with dependency on the state. What does research have to say?

Research has shown that social welfare programs do not necessarily encourage single mother hood or il leg it im acy . In fact , many studies have found that these programs have a positive impact on reducing poverty and improving the well - being of families , including those headed by single mothers . For example , a study by the Center for American Progress found that the E arn ed In come Tax Credit ( E IT C ) has been associated with a decrease in the number of children born out of wed lock and an increase in marriage rates among low - inc ome couples . Similarly , a study by the Urban Institute found that the Supp lement al Nut rition Ass istance Program ( SN AP ) has been associated with a decrease in poverty and an increase in employment among single mothers . It ' s important to note that while social welfare programs can have positive effects , they are not a substitute for marriage or responsible p aren th ood , and should be used in conj unction with other support systems to promote family stability and well - being . </s>