Here Are The Positive And Negative Psychological Effects Of Single Parenthood On Children

Jul 06, 2018 by apost team

One of the hardest parts of single parenting is the constant question of whether child’s upbringing will have major effects on their development. These people are not alone. Even if the child does not overtly display these qualities, there may be some psychological effects. Here are some of the possible things that can be the result of being raised by a single parent

Positive effects

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Stronger bond with the single parent

A single parent will more than likely be spending a ton of time with his or her child. This is not always the case when both parents are around to nurture the child. You can take this as an opportunity to establish a strong bond with your kid. Put in the effort and truly get a feel for what they do and do not like. Make sure your child knows that you are there for them no matter what happens.

Shared responsibilities

Children usually tend to be more proactive around the house when they are raised by a single parent. For example, a child is far more likely to start doing chores around the house on their own initiative as a result of single parenthood. This occurs out of care rather than obligation. You should acknowledge this in a positive light if you observe it, as it indicates that your child is growing up.

Maturity at a young age

A child of a single parent is likely to notice how much effort the single parent is exerting for the child. This can cause the child to learn appreciation more quickly and mature at a younger age. Having a single parent can cause the kid to take life more seriously and avoid taking things for granted.

Mutual understanding

Having to raise a child with no help makes you foster a true connection with your child. All this time that you must spend as a pair fosters the development of a true understanding of one another’s tendencies. This deep bond that occurs can contribute to mutual understanding and true connection.

Negative effects

Sense of abandonment

Sometimes, it can be very difficult for a child to get over the loss of a parent and shake the feeling of abandonment. Even if you put in the utmost effort to get rid of it, this feeling may persist. It can be especially draining in the case of a divorce or separation. A child who missed out on the opportunity to meet the second parent can develop a feeling of being unwanted or undesirable. It is important to comfort the child in this situation and make sure he or she knows of the love you have for her.

Lack of self-esteem

It is common for the child of a single parent to be low on self-esteem. They develop feelings that they will never be good enough and even begin to expect less out of life. The child can experience feelings of neglect when the single parent’s best efforts are not enough. Be sure you are spending time with the child to help him or her experience comfort if this seems to be the case.

Low levels of discipline

It can be very common for the child of a single parent to lack proper discipline. If you pamper the child to a very high degree, the child can begin to develop inconsiderate tendencies and lack empathy for the hardships of others. To avoid this, make sure your child knows how lucky they are and how important it is to be grateful for what they have before them.

Smarty Pants? Not so much

Lower levels of intelligence have been linked to children with single parents. Studies show that children with single parents are more likely to drop out of school and give up on academics in general. These children can have a particularly hard time with focus and concentration on school work. To avoid this, make sure your child is doing what is necessary to sharpen their brain and keep those grades up.

Single parenthood can have a multitude of psychological effects on a child, be it good or bad. It is important to be aware of this and know what to do in adverse situations. Show this to a single parent friend to let them know that it's going to be okay, or to someone else that this reminded you of.