"Exploring the Challenges of Single Mothers Parenting After Divorce"

Document Type : Original Article

Authors

1 Master's student in Positive Psychology, Jihad Daneshgahi, Shiraz, Fars, Iran.

2 Department of Psychology, Fatemeh Institute of Higher Education, Shiraz

10.22034/jwir.2025.727651
Abstract
The purpose of the present study was to explore the challenges of single mothers' parenting after divorce. This qualitative study used a descriptive phenomenology method, and the statistical population included divorced mothers with children residing in Shiraz in the year 1403 (2024-2025). A total of 22 participants were purposefully selected, and in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Analysis of the participants' experiences led to the identification of 4 main themes and 36 sub-themes. The main themes included economic challenges, relationship crises, lack of parental alignment in upbringing, and lack of social support. The results indicate the necessity of paying attention to post-divorce parenting and increasing the awareness of divorced parents with children through participation in joint parenting workshops. Additionally, increasing support from social institutions and family-related organizations plays a significant role in reducing the economic problems of single mothers and contributes to improving the mental health of this group, thereby reducing the negative impacts of divorce.The purpose of the present study was to explore the challenges of single mothers' parenting after divorce. This qualitative study used a descriptive phenomenology method, and the statistical population included divorced mothers with children residing in Shiraz in the year 1403 (2024-2025). A total of 22 participants were purposefully selected, and in-depth semi-structured interviews were conducted until data saturation was reached. Analysis of the participants' experiences led to the identification of 4 main themes and 36 sub-themes. The main themes included economic challenges, relationship crises, lack of parental alignment in upbringing, and lack of social support. The results indicate the necessity of paying attention to post-divorce parenting and increasing the awareness of divorced parents with children through participation in joint parenting workshops. Additionally, increasing support from social institutions and family-related organizations plays a significant role in reducing the economic problems of single mothers and contributes to improving the mental health of this group, thereby reducing the negative impacts of divorce.

Keywords



Articles in Press, Accepted Manuscript
Available Online from 28 July 2025