Single parent family - one piece…
The single-parent family is a new social reality, as it becomes more and more dominant. It is now clear that there is a variety of family models and that the dominance of the nuclear family model in many cases is shaken. A single-parent family can result from situations of divorce, widowhood, abandonment of a family home by one parent, or motherhood outside of marriage or cohabitation. Maternity out of wedlock a few generations ago brought a social stigma, however, it is gradually dramatized, as social circumstances change and it is obvious how the structure of a family does not make it functional or not, but the quality of relationships is what affects the upbringing of children.
Although we see a significant increase in single-parent families, the support they receive is insufficient and the difficulties they often face are significant. The absence of one of the two parents results in the burden of upbringing and the day-to-day care of the child belonging only to one parent who has to take on multiple roles. The flexibility of roles, - the alternation of the role of father and mother in the same person - and the coverage of the emotional needs of children require large mental reserves. Many parents face financial difficulties, as there is no other financial contribution, unemployment, homelessness and proper information to seek support. In general, single-parent families have low incomes, the receipt of benefits is occasional and insufficient, as well as delays and problems in the functioning of the welfare system make the prospect of independence impossible.
In these special cases that need immediate help, which the state is unable to provide to single-parent families, humanitarian organizations are present, composed of groups of people with a common vision and goals who share the same concerns. Their purpose is to offer services voluntarily and non-profit, with the concern of moral, psychological support as well as material offer. NGOs are an integral part of our society, especially in recent years, as they have been created and committed to supporting the affected groups, relieving them of the burden of their great responsibility, and meeting their needs in every way possible. They can and do adapt to conditions that do not favor other actors, are next to the problem and have the ability to respond immediately to existing needs, operating with reliability, altruism, and respect, supporting to the maximum the institution of the family, both for the psychological - financial support for children and their parents.
Pliakogianni Niki, Social Worker.
