single parenting
On Your Own
Raising children as a single parent can be an overwhelming challenge to face. And while at times you may feel truly alone, you really aren't. There are 11.9 million single-parent households in the United States; that means that 28 percent of America's children are being raised by one parent. Over the last 20 years, single parenting has even bypassed two-parent households as the most common way in which children are raised. Single parents head 30 percent of all U.S. households while only about 26 percent of households have two parents living together. But while solo parenting is a very common lifestyle in today's society, many of the difficulties it creates for the parent are hard to face alone.
Many single parents and their children assume that a household with one adult can function as though there were two parents. But juggling the responsibilities of providing for the family, maintaining a household and caring for children is often overwhelming for two individuals to handle, much less one. Community, church and volunteer involvements, while important to the success of a single parent household, can make the job seem even harder. Single parents often find that they have less time than ever to spend with their children. In addition, the family's finances are typically drastically reduced by the parents ' break-up, bringing new stresses that didn't exist before.
The fact that most single parents have been through a divorce creates some unique problems as well. Child custody and financial issues can cause further conflict between mother and father. This continuing struggle often disrupts relationships with children. The divorce often interrupts the support system of extended family as well, making the single parent feel even more alone. Helping children struggle through the emotional, behavioral and academic issues that divorce usually brings can exhaust single parents to a whole new level. And as parents begin entering new relationships, they face challenges dealing with their children's reactions and their own mixed feelings about starting over again.
Background Information
Questions and Answers
I am bothered by having to send my kids to visit their dad for three weeks in the summer. Can you help me accept what I'm about to go through?
Answer
What encouragement can you offer to those of us who are single parents?
Answer
Review Frequently Asked Questions
Stories
Let go of the Reins
Teaching your children independence starts earlier than you think.
Accepting a New Identity
Unexpectedly widowed, a woman has trouble accepting her role as single parent.
My Mother, My Hero
My mother sacrificed her life to give her kids the best she could — and to help us be our best.
If you've been through a experience related to this topic, we invite you to share your story with others.Share Your Story
Other Things to Consider
Where is God in the Midst of All My Troubles?
So many cry out to Him in times of need, but is God really listening? And, more important, does He care?
Related Topics
Relationships: Blended Families, Parents and Adult Children
Transitions: Preparing for Adolescence, Empty Nest
