In today’s society, I would guess that one out of every four families consists of a single-parent home where at least one child is under the age of 18.

Many of these families often experience extreme economic issues. While more families today are learning to depend on others and lean on family members and friends, children are more likely to create strong bonds with others and fill those needs that at one point was considered a deficiency.

In order for single parents to make ends meet, there must be some form of child support and adequate employment that offers the financial substance needed to adequately meet the increasing demands of a growing child.

Single parents must know who they really are — their role and identity within the family unit. Many times they may wear more than one hat. More men today are not afraid to put on the apron or rock a child to sleep. More women today are not afraid to work a full-time job and cut the grass. Unfortunately, there is still a social stigma attached to the single-parent status. It is difficult at times for women to serve as the “bread winner” and meet the expected parental responsibilities that a man has generally been viewed to tackle.

In any family, the lack of a formal education and acquired job skills can limit a person from mastering his or her career goals. Trying to obtain a degree and raise a child independently can be severely overwhelming. Yet, wage differences between women and men are not as powerful as they were decades ago. Women are learning to stand up for their rights and follow their dreams. In all fairness, this is grand; however, men should be able to continue to do the same. Economic security and a positive attitude can alleviate much stress in regards to any form of parenting. 

Whether by marital dissolution or a teenage pregnancy, the majority of single parents face a number of challenges that usually relate to a lack of education, job readiness and emotional maturity. Simply the basic needs of food, shelter, and child care can drain a person’s income. Whether male or female, it is vital that all single parents seek the emotional support from friends, peer groups, family, or counseling if needed.

Also, enriching one’s life with the job skills needed to engage in a secure line of work is crucial for one’s financial status.

Finding the right child care and practicing positive, proactive parenthood is paramount to finding success in the home.

Dr. Sonya Rogers is a certified counselor who lives in Daphne. 

Her column regularly appears in the Daphne Bulletin and Spanish Fort Sun.