Learn about the most common strengths and difficulties of a single-parent family

Currently there is a large number and diversity of family forms that have little or nothing to do with the more traditional concept. One of the new typologies that has been emerging is that of single-parent families. Are characterized by the absence of one of the adults that formed the basis of that traditional typology (father, mother and children).

Like all types of family, this one has its own particularities that differentiate it from other archetypes, such as, for example, the nuclear one. Among them, the fact that many children, before conforming, have had to live in a situation of conflict created and sustained by their parents. But there are many other differences that reveal the adaptation process that they have had to carry out in recent decades to fully integrate into society (and that society has also had to do, with more or less resistance, to welcome them).

Subtypes of single-parent families

These types of family units are made up of an adult who has assumed responsibility for one or more children. Nevertheless, The concept is very broad, since it encompasses a large number of conformation modalities. They may be:

A father or mother who has separated and lives in the same house with one or more children. An elderly man, widowed, who lives with a son in his teens. A single woman or man who decides to adopt. A teenage girl who has had a baby and decides to remain in the family home raising her child.

Strengths of single-parent families

The absence of one of the parental figures in many cases strengthens the emotional bond between the mother or father and the children. Likewise, lacking one of the reference figures, the independence when making decisions concerning the education and life of children is greater. This also extends to the absence of discussions about the educational criteria used in the growth of children. This more relaxed and flexible environment can generate a somewhat more pleasant family atmosphere.

Generally, in this type of single-parent families, individuals who lack one of the attachment figures are more independent. Many adopt the role of that absent father or mother and acquire greater responsibilities than those required of them at their age. Sometimes these demands or forced adaptations help them mature, but they can also become a weak point, as we will see below.

Weaknesses of single-parent families

One of the main difficulties faced by these types of groups is the exposure of minor children to conflict between parents. In the consultations we are direct witnesses of how The problems that arise in the couple directly impact the children. An impact that in many cases leaves a deep mark that echoes beyond childhood. To all this, sometimes we must add the rejection that the little ones may have suffered for not belonging to a traditional family.

Furthermore, the difficulty in maintaining dialogue and reaching agreements facilitates unilateralism when making important decisions. This loneliness when carrying out parenting tasks increases the daily workload for the caregiver, who begins to dedicate less time to themselves and relegate their needs in their scale of priorities.

Furthermore, the parent lacks opportunities to compare opinions, discuss solutions to possible problems, or simply delegate responsibility for certain decisions to another. That compensation and shared space created in marriage is also nonexistent.

Less privacy and more permissiveness

In fact, in single-parent families, Normally children do not respect the privacy of adults because they do not know or are practically unaware of what intimacy as a couple is. For this reason, in some cases it is common for them to interrupt telephone conversations or interfere in decisions that do not concern them due to their stage of maturation.

It also tends to result in an increase in permissiveness towards children, which, in a certain way, They tend to take advantage of this double role of father and mother. However, as we have mentioned, sometimes the child can assume the role of the absent figure. For example, strongly opposing the mother’s going out with friends, challenging her father, or demanding to share a bed.

The most negative thing about this situation is that the adult unconsciously allows it. There is no partner (or other person, failing that) so involved in parenting that can act as a mirror so that the father or mother can understand. that he is not favoring his son.

However, single-parent families are still held together by the same “glue” as any other typology. Those pillars are love, protection, security and continuous care. The fact that they have certain strengths and vulnerabilities simply adds a touch of particularity to their situation.

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