This study examines the relationship between changing family living arrangements and psychological well-being of childrearing women when judged in concert with persistent life strains, stressful life events, and social support mechanisms. Using longitudinal data (N=833) on childrearing women in an urban black neighborhood in Chicago, our findings indicate that long-term single parenting may be considered a chronic Stressor. Women who were the only adult in the household when their children were in early school grades and remained so when they reached adolescence had higher levels of psychological distress than women who lived with another adult, especially those who gained an adult family member (nonspouse) or lived with a spouse. Death of a family member or close friend, unemployment, and changes in residence were associated with increased distress. Emotional support, having a friend as a confidant, and frequent church attendance were related to less distress.