HomePsychology and Education: A Multidisciplinary Journalvol. 19 no. 10 (2024)

Navigating Parenthood Alone: Unveiling Parenting Style, Parental Stress, Challenges and Coping Strategies of Solo Fathers

Jay Errol Baral | Maria Criselda Garcia | Cee Jay Supan | Ariel Vien Tan | Florie Mae Asgar | Marietta Agustin

Discipline: psychology (non-specific)

 

Abstract:

This study aimed to explore the parenting styles, parenting stress, challenges and coping mechanisms among selected solo fathers in the Philippines. Information was gathered through an initial survey questionnaire distributed to twenty solo fathers, ultimately resulting in twelve final respondents. The selection of participants utilized snowball sampling techniques, enabling an in-depth examination of the experiences of those solo fathers actively involved in raising their children as the sole parent. Participants were chosen based on specific criteria: (1) Solo Fathers, individuals assuming primary caregiving responsibility without a partner, whether divorced, separated, widowed, or never married; (2) Age range between 25 and 55 years; (3) Participants must have children. Data gathering procedure involved quantitative measures using validated instruments like the Parenting Style Inventory (PSI), categorizing styles into Authoritative, Authoritarian, Permissive, and Uninvolved, and the Parental Stress Scale (PSS) to assess stress levels. Qualitative insights were captured through a carefully crafted interview protocol exploring solo fathers' experiences, challenges, and coping mechanisms. Results from the analysis revealed two significant subjects: challenges experienced among solo fathers, encompassing role fulfillment and obligations, with two sub-themes under role fulfillment—discipline and care. Coping strategies emerged with two main themes: (1) coping strategies for authoritative parenting styles, including direct-seeking help and indirect-seeking help, and (2) coping strategies for authoritarian and permissive parenting styles, which involved accepting responsibility and seeking support. By delving into the unique experiences of solo fathers, the research contributes to the university's mission by addressing the diverse challenges faced by individuals assuming the role of the sole parent. Moreover, this research resonates with the university's commitment to environmental stewardship and social holiness by providing insights on the challenges confronted by solo fathers contributing to the broader realm of psychology, fostering a holistic approach to academic and societal engagement while actively contributing to the transformation of society.



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