They have a greater appreciation of responsibility in being the primary parent. They show more concern about day care, more interest in education and protection of their children, and more discipline orientation. Children living in single-parent families also have additional stresses, but they find ways to adapt and thrive. A recent study found several characteristics in single-parent families that encourage positive youth development. These assets and building blocks serve as protective factors for all young people, including those in single-parent families.
Several assets highlight the critical influence of family dynamics on adolescent well-being.
Others point toward the influence support systems have on families' adjustment - quality schools, friends who are a positive influence, extracurricular organizations, and religious institutions. This external network of support provides the key to success of single parent families. Rearing families as single parents is tough work. However, with special effort, and the support of individuals, communities, and institutions around them, single parent families can be supportive, healthy families in which young people will thrive. Parenting in Contemporary Society.