The term "Single parenting" carries a weight that many shy away from. It paints a picture of a home managed solely by one parent, where the responsibilities of nurturing and raising children rest on a lone shoulder.
In a world where children are becoming increasingly rebellious, the task of single-handedly raising them becomes a tough challenge. Though the journey of single parenting is marked by struggles and challenges but sometimes success can be achieved.
Take a Survey of the young minds, and you'll find a chorus of voices yearning for the undying embrace of two united hearts- Their Mum and Dad. Yet, life's twists and turns often push couples toward separate ways, giving birth to this phenomenon called single parenting.
IMPACT OF SINGLE PARENTING ON A CHILD.
The effect of single parenting is diverse. While some adapt as if cool with it, others do not. Let's consider a few impact single-parenting can have on a child.
A CRAVE FOR LOVE:
No matter how loving the single parent is to the child, the child remains denied the love of the missing parent. Some single parents are not able to fill the vacuum nor bridge the gap, leaving the child with an option of a life of fragmented love.
OVER INDULGING THE CHILD
Indiscipline occasionally looms over children in single-parent homes. The absence of a second guiding hand sometimes translates to a lack of proper manners or boundaries. Overcompensation from the present parent can inadvertently lead to indulgence, rather than structure.
DISCIPLINE
Surprisingly, Some children emerge from single-parent households bearing the mantle of discipline. They carry themselves with dignity, embrace responsibility, and work tirelessly to honor the sacrifices made on their behalf.
FEELING STIGMATIZED
Some children are stigmatized. They are called names in schools and this weigh them down and soon, they lose their fragile self-esteem leading to suicide attempt or a threat to run or even hating School.
FEELING VICTIMIZED
Some children are treated harshly just to rob off the pain of separation on the child. Sometimes, you hear a mother insulting and calling a child names and reminding him how mean his father has been. A woman I knew hated her son, even after another man married her and took up the responsibility of the child. He constantly exasperated the child on his father's account; his father had denied his pregnancy.
FEELING OF LONELINESS
In a quest to satisfy the needs of the child, the single mother works extra hard. This makes her absent most times and as such, the child is left at the mercy of neighbours or lives in solitude. How sad!
IMPACT OF SINGLE PARENTING ON THE PARENT
A BLESSING IN DISGUISE:
This may sound funny but for some single parents, an unexpected blessing emerges from their broken relationship. They now enjoy respite after turbulent years of bartery. Living alone gives them freedom to make decisions about the child's upbringing depending on the age and they are also able to take control of their lifes.
FEELING STRESSED:
The single parent is always stressed out, especially because he or she shoulders the burdens of work and the home front; besides the unruly behaviour of the child that tests her patience.
HEARTACHE:
Unfortunately, some children in single parent homes have constantly brought the parent shame. Some have engaged in improper behaviours that has landed them in police custody or even hospitals. The single parent becomes burdened with the resulting heartache and embarrassment that only he or she understands.
FEELING OF LONELINESS:
Single parents shoulder the responsibility of meeting their child's emotional, physical, and financial needs. They manage this alongside juggling work-life and personal matters. But who tends to their own needs? While some may seek solace in various ways, for those who bear the scars of separation, trusting another person becomes a challenge. As a result, they might struggle with loneliness, yearning for someone to care for them and fulfill their needs
ADVICE FOR SINGLE PARENTS
Been a single parent can be challenging but with the right mindset, one can survive.
SEEK HELP:
Single parents can lean on their circle of friends, family members, or professional counselors, seeking assistance and support in various forms.
OPEN COMMUNICATION
Single parents can form close friendships with their children, fostering open communication that strengthens the family bond even further.
UNWIND EVEN IF IN SMALL WAYS
Single parents often find themselves in solitude. It's important to celebrate even the smallest achievements, including those of the child. Celebrate them because each victory is a testimony of their uniqueness and their ability to triumph over challenges.
REST
Do not beat yourself too hard or over labour yourself just to keep up with other parents who are training their kids as a couple. Take a break when you can and recharge. You have come a long way for the kids, they need you the only parent, alive and well. Eat healthy foods and rest.
Thanks for your visit, I appreciate.
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How can you add to the above so as to help those struggling as single parents. If you are one already, you are strong and can survive.
Yours,
@adoore-eu