Single parenthood is difficult but not impossible. Yes, there are a few single parents that have managed to raise their kids despite the odds; however, it's largely better to have both parents on the ground. The effects can be tailored towards either the single parent or the children. Let's take a look below:
Difficult decision-making: This is usually taxing for a single parent when a decision is to be made. We know the common saying that 'two good heads are better than one.'. Unfortunately, the whole burden of decision lies on the parent, and an exception by the children, especially when they are younger in age, may be seen as a front to parenthood. Having both parents on deck often breeds better decision-making and equally risk sharing.
Financial obligations: There is no upbringing that does not require resources, especially financial ones, and this could be very troubling and demanding on the single parent. Though the children may view the single parent as their superhero, oftentimes, the parent is usually overburdened and may not be able to provide adequately for the children like the abundance of other parents.
Responsibility strains: Imagine having to bear the whole of the responsibilities of the upbringing of the children, such as waking up very early to prepare breakfast, making the kids ready for school, dealing with work stress, getting called when the children are sick, being the same person to pick the kids from school, preparing dinner, and engaging in other activities as a parent or even as an individual. Such tasks can be overwhelming, and there could be sparks of frustration being dished out on the innocent kids.
Now, let's take a brief look at the effect of having a single parent in the lives of kids.
Children are sensitive and smart, and usually at their age, they need all the possible inputs from having both parents on the ground. Children tend to enjoy the emotional care of their mothers while at some point having the confidence of an older male figure in the house or setting. Children are likely to be lacking in some inputs while having exaggerated inputs from the available parents. Children being sensitive and exposed to other peers could equally mean they feel a sense of inadequacy or absenteeism and may tend to ask questions. It is noteworthy that single parenthood may result from different sources such as divorces and separations, deaths, etc.
However, having both parents on deck does not guarantee a bright or responsible future for kids, but this gives them a higher chance of turning out well in society.
Thank you for reading. I would love to have your comments and contributions.