This document, based on a computer search of the ERIC database, presents a review of the literature on divorce and single parent families. Statistics from the 1980 census are presented which show that 19.7 percent of children under 18 live with a single parent, who in the overwhelming number of cases is the mother. The document presents data on the economic problems, causes, and adjustment issues surrounding divorce. The impact of divorce on children is discussed as well as the particular needs of single parent families stemming from the dissolution of the marriage and the setting up of a new lifestyle. Areas of strain to the mother and to the father are identified. Problems inherent in remarriage are reviewed and intervention strategies are suggested. The helping role of society is explored in the areas of legal services, custody laws, conciliation counseling, mediation counseling, personal counseling, and school programs. References and an annotated bibliography from the computer search of the ERIC database complete the document. (BL)