NCJ Number
146606
Date Published
1993
Length
23 pages
Annotation
This paper examines aspects of single-parent families that puts children at risk of engaging in negative behavior and the assets that can result in the children thriving despite the odds against them.
Abstract
In this article, the author focuses on the dissolution of two-parent families and the resulting harmful impact on the children involved. Three pertinent issues relevant to this theme are discussed: 1) at risk behavior of children reared by single parents; 2) deficiencies within single-parent families that cause negative behavior; and 3) the characteristics of healthy single-parent families that seem to reduce the risks to the children. The author finds that children in single- parent families often are faced with such liabilities as victimization, poverty, negative social influences and isolation. These factors can lead them to make risky choices. Finding ways to minimize or reduce the deficits inherent in many single-parent families is viewed as the key to healthier and more stable children. The presence of certain factors such as supportive, quality schools, positive peer influences, extracurricular activities and involvement in religious and community activities can make the difference between children who thrive in a single-parent home and those who do not. The author suggests that greater attention be paid to reducing divorce and separation, nurturing positive assets and reinforcing institutions for single parents, promoting responsible fatherhood and finding ways to help single parents make economic gains. 6 figures