Effects of a
Single-Parent Family
The Good and the Bad
Today, more children than ever are being raised by single parents. Some parents choose to raise their kids as a single parent, and others find themselves in that situation after a divorce or the death of their spouse. A single-parent household does impact a child's life in many ways, some positive and some negative. Everyone should understand how being raised by a single-parent could affect a child's life.
Single Parents Can Make It Work
THERE ARE BENEFITS
While most people would agree that being raised by a single parent isn't the ideal situation, it's also not always a complete negative. For some single parent households, children experience big benefits, such as an increased sense of responsibility and a strong relationship with their single parent. Additionally, children may bond with other friends and family members who participate in their life.
FINANCIAL STRUGGLES
Unfortunately, a single parent typically doesn't have as much access to the financial resources that a two-parent household does. Raising children on one income can be a struggle for most single parents. Single parents may not be able to pay all of their bills or worry about how to feed and clothe their children. This constant stress can take a toll on the parent's ability to raise children effectively.
The Psychological Aspect
BEHAVIORAL PROBLEMS
Single parents may also struggle with setting and enforcing behavior expectations for their children. Children without a strong male role model may have poor grades or get into trouble at school. Sometimes, the stress from not being able to control their kids can turn into an abusive situation. In this case, a child custody attorney can help remove children from a home where abuse is present.
LOVE AND SUPPORT
It's important for every child to feel loved and supported at home. With encouragement, clear limits, and constant love, children can grow up into successful and happy adults. It doesn't always matter if a child comes from a two parent household or a single parent home. What matters the most is that the environment is nurturing and supportive, no matter how many parents live at home.