Single Parents And Their Children (Press, 14 June 1986)

"Bringing Up Children On Your Own," written by Lix McNeill Taylor and published in 1986, is a comprehensive exploration of the challenges faced by single parents. Taylor, a journalist known for her previous work "Living with Loss," which dealt with widowhood, expands on the topic of single parenthood by incorporating insights from approximately 50 individuals who share their experiences and perspectives. The book addresses the complex emotions that single parents may experience, including grief and resentment regarding their newfound responsibility. Taylor discusses the societal expectations placed upon single parents, particularly the anticipation of difficulties that educators and friends often bring to the equation, which can add pressure to the parenting experience. Notably, she emphasises that single-parent families can arise from various circumstances, not just the death of a partner, but also from divorce or the absence of a partner entirely. Taylor highlights the changing landscape of motherhood, pointing out that an increasing number of unmarried mothers are making a conscious decision to raise children independently. This trend includes professional women reaching older ages who choose to have children without a partner. She also touches upon the experiences of lesbian parents and the challenges they face in a society that often harbours prejudice against their family structures. Some of her informants share unconventional methods of conception, which Taylor uses to illustrate the diversity and complexity of family dynamics today. A particularly poignant aspect of the book is the recognition of the psychological toll that single parenthood can take on individuals. Taylor argues that the pursuit of perfection in parenting can be a source of anxiety for single parents, and she contends that the traditional two-parent family does not always have an edge in successfully raising children. The narrative counters the notion that single parents are merely sacrificial figures whose well-being is secondary to their children's needs, suggesting instead that parenthood encompasses a shared responsibility and emotional engagement from both sides. Ultimately, "Bringing Up Children On Your Own" serves as a supportive discussion aimed at reducing the feelings of isolation that single parents often endure. Taylor’s work validates the realities of single parenting by acknowledging its trials while offering insights and encouragement to those navigating the complexities of raising children alone. The book stands as a reminder that while challenges exist, the love and dedication of a single parent can be just as impactful as that of a two-parent household.

The text on this page is created, in the most part, using Generative AI and so may contain errors or omissions. It is supplied to you without guarantee or warranty of correctness. If you find an error or would like to make a content suggestion please get in contact

The text on this page is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-ShareAlike 3.0 New Zealand