Single parenting has become more common and accepted in society over the past few decades.
Single parenting is one of the hardest jobs in the world. As a single parent, you are responsible for all aspects of your child’s care and development. You must provide love, support, and guidance while also ensuring that your child is healthy and safe.
As a single parent, you must have heard people say that your child needs both parents in order to thrive. If such conversations have forced you to think about the effects of single parents on a child, we’re here to help.
Effects of Single Parents on a Child
Most children of single parents grow up to be just as successful as children from two-parent households. However, there are some challenges that children of single parents face that other children do not.
So what are the effects of single parents on a child? Unfortunately, there is no easy answer to this question. Every child is different and will react in their own unique way to being raised by a single parent. That said, there are some general effects that tend to be seen in children who are raised by single parents.
Behavioral Problems
According to Jonah Engler, one of the most common effects of single parenting on a child is behavioral problems. This isn’t to say that all children of single parents will have behavioral problems, but it is something that is seen more often in this group of children. This can manifest itself in a number of different ways, from acting out in school to getting into trouble with the law.
Emotional Difficulties
As per Jonah Engler, children who are raised by single parents often have a hard time dealing with their emotions. This can lead to problems like depression, anxiety, and even substance abuse.
Academic Struggles
Children of single parents tend to struggle academically. This is often because they don’t have the same level of support at home that they would if they had two parents. Without someone to help them with their homework or talk to them about their day, children of single parents can often feel lost and alone.
Single Parents
Jonah Engler‘s advice to single parents is to never give up on their children.
There is no doubt that children of single parents can face some challenges in life. However, there are many ways to decrease the negative effects on children.
Here are some pieces of advice for single parents:
- Make sure to spend quality time with your child. This can be difficult to do when you are working and taking care of everything else on your own, but it is important to try to find time for just you and your child.
- Talk to your child about their feelings and concerns. Let them know that it is okay to feel scared or sad sometimes and that you are there for them.
- Encourage your child to express themselves in whatever way they feel comfortable, whether that be through art, writing, or just talking.