Divorce and Single-Parent Families

This research paper seeks to investigate the effects of divorce and single parenting on families. The focus will be on how these two family structures impact children, both in the short-term and long-term. Additionally, this paper will explore possible interventions that can help mitigate any negative impacts of divorce and single parenting on children.

Divorce and single parenting are two of the most difficult experiences a family can go through. In the United States, approximately 40-50% of all marriages end in divorce (Amato & Gilbreth, 1999). This means that nearly half of all children in the US will experience their parents getting divorced at some point during their childhood. Single parenting is also quite common, with over 30% of children being raised by a single parent (US Census Bureau, 2018).

While divorce and single parenting can be tough on everyone involved, it is important to remember that children are often the ones who are most affected. Divorce and single parenting can lead to a number of problems for children, both in the short-term and long-term. In the short-term, children of divorce or single parents may experience a sense of loss and grief, as they adjust to the new family structure. They may also have difficulty coping with the stress of the situation, which can lead to behavioral problems. In the long-term, children of divorce or single parents may have difficulty forming trusting relationships, as they often feel abandoned or rejected by their parents. Additionally, they may struggle academically and have increased rates of mental and physical health problems.

There are a number of interventions that can help mitigate the negative impacts of divorce and single parenting on children. For example, parents can try to maintain a positive relationship with their child, even after the divorce or separation. Additionally, parents can provide emotional support to their child during this difficult time. Finally, it is important for parents to seek professional help if they are struggling to cope with the situation. By taking these steps, parents can help their children adjust to the new family structure and avoid some of the negative long-term impacts.

In conclusion, divorce and single parenting can have a number of negative impacts on children. However, there are a number of interventions that can help mitigate these effects. By taking these steps, parents can help their children adjust to the new family structure and avoid some of the negative long-term impacts.

References:

Amato, P. R., & Gilbreth, S. G. (1999). Nonresident fathers and children’s well-being: A meta-analysis of recent research. Journal of Marriage and Family, 61(3), 557-573.

US Census Bureau. (2018). Number, Timing, and Duration of Marriages and Divorces: 2009-2017. Retrieved from https://www.census.gov/data/tables/time-series/demo/families/divorce-rates.html