Pathways and Trajectories of Households in Singapore (PATHS)

The life trajectories, long-term outcomes and welfare of families are mainstay areas of concern in social policy research in Singapore. In recent years, households have navigated significant shifts – from post-pandemic recovery and cost-of-living pressures to labour market restructuring, caregiving demands, and evolving aspirations.

Against this backdrop, the Pathways and Trajectories of Households in Singapore (PATHS) study seeks to track long-term experiences and outcomes of approximately 5,000 households in Singapore, in understanding their challenges, priorities and aspirations. The study examines a diverse range of areas, including employment, family dynamics, and children’s development. It aims to investigate how families adapt to and navigate evolving life circumstances, what they prioritise, what they aspire towards, and the obstacles they face in fulfilling their aspirations.

To achieve a comprehensive understanding of these experiences and outcomes, IPS Social Lab employs a rigorous, mixed-methods approach for the PATHS study, leveraging on the complementary strengths of different research methodologies. These include quantitative analyses of large-scale population survey data at the household levels, complemented by qualitative methods to facilitate in-depth, candid, and open-ended sharing of opinions and experiences. In so doing, the study endeavours to provide a holistic and nuanced understanding of variegated long-term pathways and trajectories for families in Singapore.

As a longitudinal panel study, PATHS also contributes to evidence-informed policies aimed at strengthening family resilience, and supporting sustainable social mobility over the life course.

PATHS was launched in 2022 and to date, four waves of data collection have been completed, with preparation works underway for Wave 5. If you would like to find out more about the study and what it entails, you can refer to the latest Participant Information Sheet and Consent Form here.