Single-parent households and how that affect children
Single-parent households are families with children aged below 18 years and led by a parent. The parent can either be divorced, widowed, never had married, or not remarried. In 2019 the number of children in the United States living with a single mother parent was 15.76%, while 3.23 million children lived under single father parenting. A large number of single-parent households necessities the importance of explaining its effects on children. Single parenting affects children, both positively and negatively. I will explain how children are affected by single parenting.
Single-parent households are likely to have the challenge of low family income, which risks children’s academic performance. A financial considerable financial gap exists in the households because of a single income earner. Most commonly, children from families receive less guidance and attention because parents have to work more (Watt, p2-3). Single parenting can subject children to emotional effects. Poverty can frighten as well as stress children, causing frustration and anger due to the notable difference between them and their friends with both parents (Yulia Vangorodska). In the case where single parenting was caused by divorce, children can be affected emotionally due to the situation. Children can develop stress due to parental separation. Moreover, children can build confidence and self-esteem problems. Children are swift in taking negativity and might blame themselves for the existing situation. Child relationship with other parent might take a knock because of divorce.
Despite the negative side of single parenting, it can also have some positive effects. Children from single-parent households may demonstrate strong responsibility skills. Most commonly, they are asked to assist in more family-related tasks and chores. Also, they develop a strong bond with the parent because they depend on each other closely (Kunz). Also, they can form a close relationship with extended family members and friends as they help them.
In conclusion, single-parent households affect children both positively and negatively. Single-parent household children are subject to emotional effects, which can affect their education. However, the children tend to gain responsibility skills, strong parental bonds, and healthy bods with a friends and extended family members.
Works cited
Kunz, Marnie. “The Effects of a Single Parent Home on a Child’s Behavior.” Hello Motherhood, 18 Dec. 2018, www.hellomotherhood.com/the-effects-of-a-single-parent-home-on-a-childs-behavior-4232505.html.
Yulia Vangorodska. “How Single Parent Households Affect Children -.” Nydivorcefirm.Com, 12 July 2016, nydivorcefirm.com/single-parent-households-does-affect-children/.
Watt, Asia. “Single Parent Households and the Effect on Student Learning.” (2019).