Children of single-mothers-by-choice do just as well as those in two parent families
Parent-child relationship matters more than the number of parents, a recent study argues. Scientists found that children of single-mothers-by-choice enjoy the same well-being levels as kids that grow up in families with both their parents present.
A new study shows that when it comes to a child’s well-being, those growing up in single-mothers-by-choice families do just as good as those in two parent ones. The scientists found that while there were no differences when it came to parent-child relationship or child development, single mother benefited form a greater support network.
“Children in both family types are doing well in terms of their well-being,” said investigator Mathilde Brewaeys from the Centre of Expertise on Gender Dysphoria of the VU University Medical Centre, Amsterdam. “Single-mothers-by-choice and their children benefit from a good social support network, and this should be emphasised in the counselling of women who want to have and raise a child without a partner.”
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The study was conducted as specialists raised concerns about the well-being and development of children that grow up in single-mothers-by-choice families. But the scientists say that parent-child relationship is more important, than the presence of both parents, when it comes to development.
The research pointed out that there were no significant differences in emotional involvement or parental stress between family types. Also, there were no significant differences in the children’s internal and external problem behaviour (well-being) between both family types.
But when it came to the support network, single-mothers-by-choice showed significantly higher scores on the social support they received, but also on wanting more social support.
“A strong social network is of crucial importance,” said Ms Brewaeys. “So I would recommend that all women considering single motherhood by choice make sure of a strong social network – brothers, sisters, parents, friends of neighbours. And to never be afraid to ask for help.
The findings are important as the percentage of women that decide to have a baby on their own is growing and fertility treatments are available for those looking to conceive without a partner.
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