Experiences of children growing up in single-parent families

Abstract

The study aims to bring forth challenges that children face while living in single-parent families, through an understanding of their experiences growing up in such environments in contemporary Singapore. Qualitative narrative interviews were carried out to obtain stories and encounters of being in a single-parent family. Results show various aspects of issues faced in educational achievement, social support in the family and school, economic resources, fathers’ involvement, mothers’ relationship with the child and emotional support for the mother. Findings also reveal that the structure of the single-parent family is a strong factor that determines the experiences of the children. With these emerging issues presented, a better understanding of single-parent families could be forged in our society.