Single-parent families are as common as the typical nuclear families today. Whether the situation arose because of a couple's separation or the loss of one parent because of death, single parents face more challenges due to the stereotypes against them.
Society has different expectations from this family dynamics compared to two-parent households, according to the American Psychological Association. The notion that single parents cannot match the completeness of a traditional family hangs over their heads.
The single parent stereotypes, however, can be challenged and many single moms or dads have successfully done this for over two decades. How did they do it? One factor is in how the single parent views his or her situation.
No matter the circumstances, being a parent is always a great thing. Even without a partner, the single mom or dad is still part of the same team with very important members — the children.
Hence, establishing a partnership with the kids can help with the burden, especially if they are old enough to understand the situation and be relied upon for tasks around the house. Just because the parent is alone in raising the children, it doesn't mean that one has to do it all and feel isolated.
Another thing is that engagement should always be a top priority of a single parent and this applies not only his or her relationship with the children. There are relationships to sustain with extended family members, friends, workmates and other acquaintances as well. As the saying goes, no man is an island and that applies to single parents, too.
You're blessed to have both parents in your life.. but you're really blessed if you have a single parent working as if you had both
— legacy (@ThatDudeLegacy) December 23, 2016
According to The Parenting Guide, it's perfectly normal for a single parent to seek outside help when needed. It's also right to acknowledge and seek help for addressing anger and frustration in this volatile situation. A single parent should always have someone to talk to so that negative emotions are not bottled up or manifested in other ways.
Kids who grow up in a single-parent family can become well-adjusted children and contributing members of society if they see a healthy attitude from their caregiver — the single mom or dad. Thus, it pays to have an emotionally positive outlook with a strong and supportive unit in a complicated situation. A single parent should have this especially when there are children looking up to him or her for support, guidance and inspiration.
Are you a single parent? What tips can you share to the rest to help them get through the challenges? Sound off in the comments!
