Challenges of Single-Parent Families and Coping Strategies

Overview of Single-Parent Families

Single-parent families, by definition, are families headed by a single parent — whether by choice, as a consequence of a partner's death, or following divorce. Over the last two decades, single-parent families have been on the increase, effectively resulting in significant changes to family structure. As Strong, DeVault, and Cohen (2010) point out, "in the United States, as throughout the world, single-parent families have increased and continue to grow in number" (p. 468). Various research studies conducted in the past have clearly demonstrated that single-parent families face more challenges than two-parent families. This paper identifies some of the more prominent challenges that have been documented, and highlights further resources and potential solutions for single parents.

Stereotypes and Discrimination

Discrimination and stereotypes are among the major challenges single-parent families face. Single-parent families are frequently viewed as dysfunctional or broken homes, and as Erera (2001) points out, at the societal level, "the prevalent perception of the single-parent family is one of deviance." This means that single parents — especially single mothers — are likely to be viewed as irresponsible and uncaring, even in situations where single parenthood resulted from circumstances entirely beyond their control, such as the death of a partner. Single fathers, by contrast, are more likely to attract sympathy even when single parenting is by choice. As Valiquette-Tessier, Vandette, and Gosselin (2015) observe, "married parents appear to remain the parental type that is the most positively stereotyped and against which other types are compared." This perception is widely accepted across society.

For single mothers in particular, negative stereotyping poses a serious problem, as it can interfere with employment opportunities and career advancement. Such judgmental tendencies also make it difficult for single parents to maintain self-confidence. Discrimination based on erroneous perceptions is equally concerning: a single mother may be denied a promotion because she has been labeled "irresponsible," or an employer may assume that a single parent's parenting responsibilities prevent them from taking on more demanding professional roles.

There are several strategies single parents can adopt to counter the impact of others' perceptions, especially when those perceptions interfere with professional development or cost them a job. These include, but are not limited to, seeking legal redress. It should be noted that using familial responsibilities or family structure as a basis for workplace discrimination is illegal under Title VII of the Civil Rights Act of 1964. Single parents should also strive to remain assertive and goal-oriented, and avoid allowing others' perceptions to undermine their sense of self-worth.

Finances and Poverty

"Single parents are typically the sole breadwinners and primary caregivers within a family" (Allen and Eby, 2016, p. 365). In two-parent families, partners often share financial responsibilities — either through a division of duties (where one parent covers education costs while the other handles day-to-day household expenses) or by pooling their incomes to address family needs together. Single parents, by contrast, must rely on a single paycheck to run the entire household. Additional expenses beyond basic needs — such as day care costs, babysitting fees, and legal bills from custody or maintenance battles — can place further strain on single-parent households, pushing them closer to poverty.

According to testimony that Ron Haskins gave to the United States Senate Committee on Finance, one of the most significant contributors to rising poverty levels in the United States, particularly among women, is single parenthood (Haskins, 2012). Haskins, a former adviser on welfare issues in the White House and Congress, is well-positioned to comment on poverty, its causes, and its impact. In his own words, "if wages do not improve at the bottom, all single parents with two or more children at or below the 10th percentile — and even many above the 10th percentile — will always be in poverty if earnings are their only income" (Haskins, 2012).

To better manage their finances, single-parent households should approach spending as a shared family matter. When funds are limited, single parents should communicate this reality to their children so that every family member understands what is necessary and what is not, thereby reducing unnecessary expenditure.

Conclusion

The discussion above clearly demonstrates that single parenting presents significant challenges. This is especially true when it comes to the stresses of child-rearing and balancing professional duties with the roles and responsibilities of parenting. Various strategies have been recommended throughout this paper to help reduce the difficulties single parents face. These include, but are not limited to, careful financial management, open communication with family members, seeking professional help when necessary, and engaging the support of extended family.