Single-parent families are faced with many pressures and problems that the nuclear family typically does not encounter.  Some of these may include:

• Visitation and custody arrangements
• Effects upon the children of continued conflict between parents
• Decrease in the amount of time parents and children can spend together
• Effects of a divorce on children's performance in school and peer relations
• Disruptions in extended family relationships
• Adverse reactions to parents dating and entering new relationships

The single parent can help children and extended family cope with these problems by talking about their feelings and working together to overcome them. Additional support can come from friends, family members, and your church or synagogue. Once you have made the best choices possible and done your best to provide for your children, focus your energy on helping your family adjust to the changes in their lives. If family members continue to have problems, it may be time to consult a counselor.