This document provides an introduction and background to a research project investigating the impacts of socialization on students from single-parent families at St. Jago High School in Jamaica. The research team acknowledges those who assisted with the project. The document includes a table of contents and overview of the research design which will utilize a questionnaire to collect quantitative data from a stratified random sample of 15 students. It discusses the sociological perspective of positivism that will guide the research.
Communication Studies Internal Assessment SAMPLENyahJohnson
This Communication Studies IA sample is to be used as a guide to CAPE level (grade 12) students. The theme of this internal assessment is Social Media and Beauty.
CAPE Communication Studies IA
Please note that the example of Language/Dialectal Variation used in the Expository piece is "Jamaican Creole" and may not be a suitable example for other countries. Thank you.
Communication Studies Internal Assessment SAMPLENyahJohnson
This Communication Studies IA sample is to be used as a guide to CAPE level (grade 12) students. The theme of this internal assessment is Social Media and Beauty.
CAPE Communication Studies IA
Please note that the example of Language/Dialectal Variation used in the Expository piece is "Jamaican Creole" and may not be a suitable example for other countries. Thank you.
A research conducted by Tashieka King on the role women played in resisting enslavement. The research shows that women has contributed significantly to make their life of enslavement better.
This paper seeks to serve as a guide to unconscious CAPE students who could use a push or central idea of what a Caribbean Studies internal assessment should look like.
This is my Management of Business Internal Assesment hat i scored very high on. I would like to share this with you to give a little guidance to you.
I also have Communication Studies, Sociology and Entrepreneurship Unit IA Sba also available.
you can contact me at - erica5dacas@gmail.com
THIS IS MY ASSESSMENT ON LGBTQI DISCRIMINATION WITHIN THE COUNTRY I RESIDE. THIS IS MY COMMUNICATION IA AND I HOPE IT HELPS OR GIVES GUIDANCE TO YOU ON YOURS.
ANY NEED FOR HELP OR IF YOU WISH TO SEE THE SOFT COPY OF MY SPEECH YOU MAY EMAIL ME AT- erica5dacas@gmail.com
This School Based Assessment was made to fulfill Samantha's Communication Studies course for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination. Please do not plagiarize this document in any way. This is solely for the purpose of helping others to improve their grades as a Caribbean student.
This I.A was an investigation into a manufacturing company HEXAGON CHEMICALS in South Trinidad.
This I.A should be able to help student who are now going into this subject for Advanced levels (CAPE) because this subject was recently released in 2015 so I hope my SBA helps anyone who needs it.
Entrepreneurship unit 2 IA Dejon HarrisDejon Harris
I did extremely well on this IA and I wanted to share it with other students who might have difficulty in completing i. I hope it will be helpful to someone who's doing unit 2
ALSO, CAN YOU GUYS SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL
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A research conducted by Tashieka King on the role women played in resisting enslavement. The research shows that women has contributed significantly to make their life of enslavement better.
This paper seeks to serve as a guide to unconscious CAPE students who could use a push or central idea of what a Caribbean Studies internal assessment should look like.
This is my Management of Business Internal Assesment hat i scored very high on. I would like to share this with you to give a little guidance to you.
I also have Communication Studies, Sociology and Entrepreneurship Unit IA Sba also available.
you can contact me at - erica5dacas@gmail.com
THIS IS MY ASSESSMENT ON LGBTQI DISCRIMINATION WITHIN THE COUNTRY I RESIDE. THIS IS MY COMMUNICATION IA AND I HOPE IT HELPS OR GIVES GUIDANCE TO YOU ON YOURS.
ANY NEED FOR HELP OR IF YOU WISH TO SEE THE SOFT COPY OF MY SPEECH YOU MAY EMAIL ME AT- erica5dacas@gmail.com
This School Based Assessment was made to fulfill Samantha's Communication Studies course for the Caribbean Advanced Proficiency Examination. Please do not plagiarize this document in any way. This is solely for the purpose of helping others to improve their grades as a Caribbean student.
This I.A was an investigation into a manufacturing company HEXAGON CHEMICALS in South Trinidad.
This I.A should be able to help student who are now going into this subject for Advanced levels (CAPE) because this subject was recently released in 2015 so I hope my SBA helps anyone who needs it.
Entrepreneurship unit 2 IA Dejon HarrisDejon Harris
I did extremely well on this IA and I wanted to share it with other students who might have difficulty in completing i. I hope it will be helpful to someone who's doing unit 2
ALSO, CAN YOU GUYS SUBSCRIBE TO MY YOUTUBE CHANNEL
https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCAnTpjKrAWT_RspyeCYiXIQ?view_as=subscriber
Response for discussion 1Assumptions people might make aboutmickietanger
Response for discussion 1
Assumptions people might make about different family configurations:
Non-traditional family configurations are judged for being different than traditional families. These families are stigmatized as the alcoholic, multiracial, lesbian, or gay families, among other configurations (Breshears, 2011). This disapproval negatively affects the family, and especially the development of the children.
One such family configuration that assumptions are made is a family with homosexual parents. These families face the challenge that they are not a true family structure (Breshears, 2011). In fact, they may receive hostility or be stigmatized. Because of the prejudice (Fitzgerald, 2010), the children need to be taught by the parents about homophobia (Breshears, 2011). Plus, their family identity is scrutinized more than a traditional family. This family structure is likewise challenged not only directly, but indirectly in the school. Lesbian and gay families may not represented in schools in books or on posters. Other children may criticize the child of homosexual parents. There may also be indirect challenges of family identity on school assignments (Breshears, 2011). In response, some families may encourage their children to hide the family identity to protect them from discrimination (Breshears, 2011).
Impacts assumptions have on the development of children:
If a child’s family is injured or hurt, so is his/her own identity because family is an extension of the child’s self-identity (Derman–Sparks & Olson Edwards, 2010). Thus, the child may hold the burden for his/her parents and feel a need to protect them. This causes extra stress on the child (Fitzgerald, 2010). They may, as well, take on the anxiety of their parents. Additionally, Fitzgerald (2010) discussed that children of homosexual families feel pressure to be perfect and struggle to trust others due to constant harassment from peers.
How do these assumptions impact my work with children:
I believe that it is best practice to respect all family structures because structure does not identify how the family functions (Derman–Sparks & Olson Edwards, 2010). Ultimately, in my job as a school psychologist, I need to keep an open mind and focus on how the function of a child’s family impacts his/her cognitive, social, and emotional development. Besides helping the individual by listening, I can provide them with resources and suggest support groups to help them not feel alone or isolated. For example, the Gay-Straight Alliance (GSA) has been shown to improve school climate by educating the school community about sexual minority issues while increasing social support for LGBTQ students and those students with same sex parents (Heck, 2014). Joining a GSA may help a student from a homosexual family.
References
Breshears, D. (2011). Understanding communication between lesbian parents and their children regarding outsi ...
Personality Development: Assessing the Effects of Single Parent Families on S...inventionjournals
Family structures are an important contributor to the physiological and behavioral development of students. It is hypothesized that personality development of students living with single parent is influenced by the type of family structure, parent with whom the child lives with and the amount of time spent by parents with their children. To investigate such influence, this study employed a cross-sectional co-relational research design. A snow ball sampling technique was used to identify respondents for sample. The study used a sample 60 students whereby 50% were from single parent homes and 50% from intact homes. Data was collected by use of questionnaire designed to identify factors that contribute to personality development of students. Personality development was measured using the Big Five dimensions of personality trait parameters namely openness, conscientiousness, extraversion, agreeableness, neuroticism. The analysis was presented using frequencies, percentages, t-test, independent test and one way ANOVA tests. Statistical Package for Social Sciences was used to aid in generating a summary of results which were represented in tabular form. The findings of the study showed that there was very little influence of family structure on the personality development of the students. The absence of a parent or the interaction and involvement of parents with their children doesn’t have an immense effect on the personality development of the children, thus the amount of time spent by parents with their children doesn’t influence the personality development of students. The results also revealed that the major causes of the existence of single parent families are death and divorce.
Sibling Birth Spacing Influence on Extroversion, Introversion and Aggressiven...inventionjournals
Sibling spacing refers to the birth interval between consecutive children in the family. The family is the basic unit of socialization. Family interactions and other dynamics such as birth order and sibling spacing shape the personality of children. This study investigated the relationship between sibling birth spacing and, extroversion and introversion characteristics of adolescents in Nairobi, Kenya. The study adopted mixed methods research paradigm with the correlation design. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used to select three schools for the study sample and participants. From each of the three schools, twenty five students were selected to make a total sample of 75 participants. The data collection instruments for the study were standardized questionnaires and observation guides. Data was collected and analyzed using Pearson correlation analysis and Analysis of Variance. The study concluded that close sibling spacing tends to produce extraverted and highly aggressive children while wide sibling spacing tends to produce introverted and less aggressive children. The study further found that the only children, ranked highest in introversion and, lowest in aggressiveness and extraversion. The study recommended that sibling spacing knowledge should be used by school career guidance masters as locally available method of predicting personality.
Doman 1Name Surname2English 101-OCCDr. Who12 March 2013 .docxjacksnathalie
Doman 1
Name Surname2
English 101-OCC
Dr. Who
12 March 2013
The Family
Although the definition of family has changed over the time, the functions of family remain the same
Family is the people who claimed you. In good, in bad, in parts or in whole, they are the ones who show up stay in their regardless. It is not just about blood or split of genes, but something much, bigger. However, everyone has their own meaning of family. The ones who shared common characteristics that changed over the time or the ones who has varieties of settings and functions. According to dictionary of sociology family “It consist of more than one person that forms the most intimate and personal groups,” in which people are related to one another by bonds of blood, sexual mating or legal ties like the conjugal family. Sociology Through Literature Lewis Coser points out, “family is among the few universal institutions of mankind” (147). In the article, “The America Family: Where We Are Today,” Stephanie Coontz remarks, that people in the United States today have higher expectations of parenting and marriage. But, while I was searching and reading all texts written about family, I agree with everyone based in the constant change and the set of factors that contributes the transformation in what is family these days. To be aware of more about the sequence of alteration on families I will discuss some issues regarding their different roles, conflicts and solutions.
Scientific studies showed that family born in the mid-nineteenth centuries takes an institutional form in the society that is traditional. In which the family is subjected to the economy and becomes a productive company, where does not export goods or merchandize but consumes food, housing, health and many other things. However, family is being affected by
Carabajal 2
inflation and joblessness forming an imbalance in the ones who maintain the house and those who contribute to it; whether parents, children or relatives. As a result, for some families means to stop doing things that were used to do before like going on vacation or eating out. Also, could implicate to use their savings like emergency funds, retirement funds or educational funds. Mean while, for other families means to move to a smaller or less expensive house or just to look for a second job. But instead of finding a solution many families don't know how to handle the situation and tends to discuss more as they worries about trying to solve the problem. Therefore, it is very important communication between all members of the household to improve their needs. However, the financial responsibility sometimes lies in a single member of the house.
Focused on a moralistic perspective where the family subordination was the wife to the husband on her role as companion and mother. “In ancient times, for example, a marriage meant a condition in which a woman was given to a man almost as property” (The Marriage). In which, the fami ...
CHAPTER 4 From Family Deficit to Family Strength Examining How Fa.docxspoonerneddy
CHAPTER 4 From Family Deficit to Family Strength: Examining How Families Influence Children’s Development and School Success
Ellen S. Amatea
Learning Objectives
After reading this chapter, you will be able to:
■ Explain the changes in thinking of researchers who investigate how families influence their children’s learning and social adjustment.
■ Describe the assumptions of family systems theorists and ecological systems theorists regarding the influences on children’s development of the family and larger social systems.
■ Identify specific family processes demonstrated by families varying in structure and social background and how these processes influence children to be successful academically.
■ Describe strategies for assessing and using a family’s strengths to foster their child’s school success.
The summer that I turned 13, my father sat my 12-year-old sister and me down and showed us how to make a weekly schedule in which we laid out our week’s activities of chores, swimming at the community center, and trips to the library. Every Sunday night, he would ask us how our schedule had helped us keep track of what we did with our time. He would then have us make up a new schedule for the coming week. That habit of thinking purposefully about how I spend my time has stood me in good stead for the past 40 years as I tackled the multiple responsibilities of running a household, raising children, and having a demanding career.
Like this successful professional woman in her late 50s, every one of us can tell a story about the lessons our families have taught us about managing our lives. Through one’s family, children learn who they are, where they fit into society, what kinds of futures they are likely to experience, and how to plan for those futures. Although families have frequently been blamed for children’s academic difficulties, particularly when families are poor and not consistently involved with the school, most educators are not exactly sure how families, particularly those of oppressed minorities, shape their children’s future. How do families prepare their children to be successful academically? What do families, especially families who are very poor or are headed by a single parent or a grandparent, do at home to groom their children for school success?
A considerable body of research is now available that describes how families who vary in structure and social background rear children who are academically successful and socially adjusted. The purpose of this chapter is to examine what we have learned about such families. We first look at how, since the early 1960s, family researchers have changed their research perspective and moved from looking only at the surface characteristics and deficits of families to looking at the internal lives of families. Next, we discuss family system theory and ecological systems theory, and how these two theories have become the major theoretical frameworks that organize how researchers have studied .
6 Family, Culture, and Self-Concept DevelopmentA common characte.docxalinainglis
6 Family, Culture, and Self-Concept Development
A common characteristic among different societies and cultural groups is that children are born into families. Barring tragic circumstances, a newborn’s family usually consists of at least a birth mother. Often, families include other relatives such as fathers, possibly siblings, grandparents, aunts, uncles, and others. Cultural variation influences family structure across the globe, but a child’s entry into this world assuredly includes membership and involvement with some identified group. As Baldwin (1993) noted, “Even the most incorrigible maverick has to be born somewhere. He may leave the group that produced him—he may be forced to—but nothing will efface his origins, the marks of which he carries with him everywhere” (p. 10).
Each society and culture places particular importance and significance on unique family beliefs and traditions. Variation in family structure and traditional roles of mothers and fathers, as well as roles of extended family members, are as numerous as world cultures themselves. For example, the United States prides itself on “family values.” Yet, when compared with global cultures these values are often juxtaposed to other commonly held worldviews. As one example, Walsh (2003) explained, “In many cultures, it is still expected that a brother will marry the widow of a deceased husband” to carry on the family name and heritage (p. 11). Differences in aspects of childrearing also exist. Helms and Cook (1999) observed that psychodynamic theories of development used by professional counselors and other therapists rely on mostly individualistic views and “an invariant age-appropriate sequence of development” (p. 142). Furthermore, they noted that research across global cultures indicates many cultures “do not traverse the lifespan in the same manner” suggested by psychodynamic views and stage theories (p. 142). Two examples cited by Helms and Cook (1999) are reports from Chinese and West Indian graduate students that toilet training of children is not a major developmental issue as it sometimes appears in American culture, as well as information that some African newborns are weaned from breast feeding three months earlier than observed in typical Anglo-American families (Triandis, 1994). Consequently, what many Americans often perceive as “normal” in their view of family structure and function is different from what other cultures and societies might accept. Likewise, what other cultures accept as normal in family descriptions and processes vary as much as the number of cultures observed across the globe.
Exercise 6.1
Searching for Families
Instructions: Review the list of group structures and mark those you believe constitute a family. Be prepared to give your rationale for including or excluding particular structures.
Group
Family (Yes or No)
Unrelated teenage boys living in a group home with a house parent
_______________
A gay couple and the son of one partner
____.
Family Support During the Transition to AdulthoodFamily Suppor.docxssuser454af01
Family Support During the Transition to Adulthood
Family Support
Family A:
Adam and Shana have been happily married for 25 years. Adam is a manager at a large chemical company and Shana is a professor at a local community college. Together, they earn about $150,000 per year. They have 3 children, 2 boys and a girl. Their eldest child, Justin, recently finished graduate school with his M.S. in chemical engineering and has a job lined up with Johnson & Johnson. Their middle child, Danielle, is about to graduate college with a B.S. in biology. She plans to live at home for a summer while she decides what she would like to do next. Since her father’s company is always hiring biologists for their lab, she figures she can either go on to graduate school or work for her dad’s company. Their youngest son, Marcus, is currently a college sophomore majoring in architecture. He lives in a dorm during the school year but lives at home during the summer and on breaks.
Family B:
Jessica and Robert were married for 7 years and had 3 children together before getting divorced. They both have had other relationships on and off but are currently single. Jessica is a social worker and earns about $45,000 per year from her job. Robert was laid off a few years ago from his factory job and has been stringing together multiple temporary jobs since then. His income is inconsistent, but he has been earning about $25,000 per year. Jessica and Robert’s children are in their early-to-late twenties. The oldest two, Derrick and Stacy, spent some time at a 4-year college, but dropped out because of the high cost. They are both working low-wage jobs and living at home with their mom to try to save up some money to finish school. Derrick also now has a 2-year old daughter himself that lives with him every weekend. The youngest child in the family, Sarah, recently enrolled in a local community college with the hopes that she can transfer to a 4-year school after a couple years. She is working at the college bookstore to help pay tuition.
Questions:
1. For each of the families above, describe the resources and supports the parents are (likely) providing to their young adult children.
2.
For each of the families above, describe the resources and supports the children are (likely) providing to their parents or other family members. It might help to think about the extent to which the parents need support, what types of support they might need (and why), and the extent to which support can be outsourced if it is needed. Your reading should come in handy here.
3. How might the supports you mentioned in Q2 impact young adults’ abilities to fulfill their own goals during the transition to adulthood?
4. Think about the combination of responses from Q1 and Q2. How do you think the future looks for the young adults in Family A and Family B? Where might we expect these different sets of siblings to be 30 years from now?
...
Read| The latest issue of The Challenger is here! We are thrilled to announce that our school paper has qualified for the NATIONAL SCHOOLS PRESS CONFERENCE (NSPC) 2024. Thank you for your unwavering support and trust. Dive into the stories that made us stand out!
The Indian economy is classified into different sectors to simplify the analysis and understanding of economic activities. For Class 10, it's essential to grasp the sectors of the Indian economy, understand their characteristics, and recognize their importance. This guide will provide detailed notes on the Sectors of the Indian Economy Class 10, using specific long-tail keywords to enhance comprehension.
For more information, visit-www.vavaclasses.com
The French Revolution, which began in 1789, was a period of radical social and political upheaval in France. It marked the decline of absolute monarchies, the rise of secular and democratic republics, and the eventual rise of Napoleon Bonaparte. This revolutionary period is crucial in understanding the transition from feudalism to modernity in Europe.
For more information, visit-www.vavaclasses.com
Ethnobotany and Ethnopharmacology:
Ethnobotany in herbal drug evaluation,
Impact of Ethnobotany in traditional medicine,
New development in herbals,
Bio-prospecting tools for drug discovery,
Role of Ethnopharmacology in drug evaluation,
Reverse Pharmacology.
Synthetic Fiber Construction in lab .pptxPavel ( NSTU)
Synthetic fiber production is a fascinating and complex field that blends chemistry, engineering, and environmental science. By understanding these aspects, students can gain a comprehensive view of synthetic fiber production, its impact on society and the environment, and the potential for future innovations. Synthetic fibers play a crucial role in modern society, impacting various aspects of daily life, industry, and the environment. ynthetic fibers are integral to modern life, offering a range of benefits from cost-effectiveness and versatility to innovative applications and performance characteristics. While they pose environmental challenges, ongoing research and development aim to create more sustainable and eco-friendly alternatives. Understanding the importance of synthetic fibers helps in appreciating their role in the economy, industry, and daily life, while also emphasizing the need for sustainable practices and innovation.
This is a presentation by Dada Robert in a Your Skill Boost masterclass organised by the Excellence Foundation for South Sudan (EFSS) on Saturday, the 25th and Sunday, the 26th of May 2024.
He discussed the concept of quality improvement, emphasizing its applicability to various aspects of life, including personal, project, and program improvements. He defined quality as doing the right thing at the right time in the right way to achieve the best possible results and discussed the concept of the "gap" between what we know and what we do, and how this gap represents the areas we need to improve. He explained the scientific approach to quality improvement, which involves systematic performance analysis, testing and learning, and implementing change ideas. He also highlighted the importance of client focus and a team approach to quality improvement.
The Roman Empire A Historical Colossus.pdfkaushalkr1407
The Roman Empire, a vast and enduring power, stands as one of history's most remarkable civilizations, leaving an indelible imprint on the world. It emerged from the Roman Republic, transitioning into an imperial powerhouse under the leadership of Augustus Caesar in 27 BCE. This transformation marked the beginning of an era defined by unprecedented territorial expansion, architectural marvels, and profound cultural influence.
The empire's roots lie in the city of Rome, founded, according to legend, by Romulus in 753 BCE. Over centuries, Rome evolved from a small settlement to a formidable republic, characterized by a complex political system with elected officials and checks on power. However, internal strife, class conflicts, and military ambitions paved the way for the end of the Republic. Julius Caesar’s dictatorship and subsequent assassination in 44 BCE created a power vacuum, leading to a civil war. Octavian, later Augustus, emerged victorious, heralding the Roman Empire’s birth.
Under Augustus, the empire experienced the Pax Romana, a 200-year period of relative peace and stability. Augustus reformed the military, established efficient administrative systems, and initiated grand construction projects. The empire's borders expanded, encompassing territories from Britain to Egypt and from Spain to the Euphrates. Roman legions, renowned for their discipline and engineering prowess, secured and maintained these vast territories, building roads, fortifications, and cities that facilitated control and integration.
The Roman Empire’s society was hierarchical, with a rigid class system. At the top were the patricians, wealthy elites who held significant political power. Below them were the plebeians, free citizens with limited political influence, and the vast numbers of slaves who formed the backbone of the economy. The family unit was central, governed by the paterfamilias, the male head who held absolute authority.
Culturally, the Romans were eclectic, absorbing and adapting elements from the civilizations they encountered, particularly the Greeks. Roman art, literature, and philosophy reflected this synthesis, creating a rich cultural tapestry. Latin, the Roman language, became the lingua franca of the Western world, influencing numerous modern languages.
Roman architecture and engineering achievements were monumental. They perfected the arch, vault, and dome, constructing enduring structures like the Colosseum, Pantheon, and aqueducts. These engineering marvels not only showcased Roman ingenuity but also served practical purposes, from public entertainment to water supply.
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptxJheel Barad
This presentation provides a briefing on how to upload submissions and documents in Google Classroom. It was prepared as part of an orientation for new Sainik School in-service teacher trainees. As a training officer, my goal is to ensure that you are comfortable and proficient with this essential tool for managing assignments and fostering student engagement.
Instructions for Submissions thorugh G- Classroom.pptx
Sociology IA
1. P a g e | 1
Impactsof socializationon
students of St.Jago High School
insingleparentfamilies.
Group Members: Jhalon Foster, Shadaye Ennis, Vanessa Dunkley and Shanique Williams
Subject: Sociology
2. P a g e | 2
Teacher: Ms. Campbell
School: St Jago High School
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT
Our profound gratitude goes to our able and tireless teacher Miss Campbell along with the
assistance of Mr. Demarley Johnson for their painstaking efforts in supervising this work. We
appreciate their encouragement, constructive criticisms and patience in going through this
research project.
We also appreciate the efforts of our parents who provided us with relevant materials needed for
the success of this research.
3. P a g e | 3
TABLE OFCONTENTS
Section One
Statement of Problem………………………………………………….1
Aims and Objectives…………………………………………………..1
Introduction……………………………………………………………2-4
Literature Review and Historical Background………………………...5-7
Section Two
Research Design……………………………………………………….8-9
Sociological Perspective……………………………………………….10
Sample Selection……………………………………………………….11-12
Data Collection Instrument………………………………………….....13-17
Section Three
Presentation of Data and Analysis…………………………………….18-22
Section Four
4. P a g e | 4
Findings, Discussion of Findings, Conclusion………………………...23-25
Appendix………………………………………………………………………26-28
Bibliography…………………………………………………………………...29
Section One
5. P a g e | 5
Statement of Problem
An investigation into how socialization within single parent family impacts the behaviour
and academic performance of lower school students of St Jago High students between the ages of
thirteen to fourteen (13-14) years old.
Aims
To assess issues faced by students within single parent families.
To assess the behavioural pattern displayed by students in single parent families.
To determine the effects of single parent families on students’ academic performance.
Objective
The researchers will utilize questionnaires for gathering and analysis of the data. Theories of
sociological perspectives and independent research will be applied to the study.
6. P a g e | 6
Introduction
From a sociological point of view, a definition of family may be conflicting. The various
“family types and living arrangements encountered by …researchers…were difficult to classify
because of their fluidity” (Jeniffer Mohammad, 2014, p. 157). Several sociologists, however, use
the definition of the American anthropologist George P. Murdock who states that “the family is a
social group characterized by common residence, economic cooperation and reproduction. It
includes adults of both sexes, at least two of whom maintain a socially approved sexual
relationship, and one or more children, owned or adopted, of the sexually cohabiting adults.
(Haralambos et.al 2009, p.15). Majority of family structure in the Caribbean do not align to
Murdock’s definition of family, hence, any family structure that differed from this definition
were labelled ‘disfunctional’. Various theories were presented by Caribbean sociologists to
determine the causes of Caribbean family ‘dislocation’, and theorists such as Oscar Lewis
emphasized that the structure of Caribbean families were due to economic conditions. Franklin
Frazier presented a different theory, stating that the structure of Caribbean families reflects that
of the plantation society which existed during slavery. For Frazier, male marginalization within
the family was due to deliberate separation and the practice of promiscuity. “Frazier witnessed
these aspects of family life among Africans in lower socio-economic classes in North America
and the Caribbean and saw them as the indelible marks on slavery in family organization”
(Jeniffer Mohammad, 2014, p. 158).
Although families differ in form according to the society, they nevertheless are
responsible for carrying out similar functions. Regardless of family diversity, the increase in and
prevalence of families headed by one parent has a major influence on the social, economic, and
7. P a g e | 7
political context of family life. Historically, single-parent families were the result of parental
death. Contemporary factors however are changing dynamics which contribute to the
development of single parent families, namely; “increased rates of divorce and nonmarital
childbearing, increased employment opportunities for women, decreased employment
opportunities for men, and the availability of welfare benefits that enable women to set up their
own households” (Rodgers 1996, p. 13).Carlton Chinapoo et.al. describes single parent as a
family that “consists of only one parent and his or her child or children” continuing that this
family structure “is very common in the Caribbean” (Chinapoo et.al 2014, p.154). The amount
of children living in single parent families in the Caribbean have increased steadily since the 20th
century. Society is more out of flux than ever; this action mirroring greatly in the traditional
family system as it noted that “The Jamaica Survey of Living Conditions (1996) reports that
roughly 40 percent of all households in Jamaica are headed by women” (Bailey, W. R., Clement,
B., & Elsie, L. R. (1998). Parenting and Socialization in Caribbean Family Systems. Caribbean
dialogue: A policy bulletin of Caribbean affairs, 4(1), 21-28.)
The most common type of single-parent family is one that consists of a mother and her
biological child. The lack of one parental figure on their children impacts these individuals to an
extent with regards to socialization. These effects “on a child’s behaviour can be far-reaching”
affecting “several areas of life, including academic achievements and social behaviours.”
(http://www.livestrong.com/article/549047-the-education-of-children-of-single-parent-homes//)
Social scientists have found that children growing up in single-parent families are disadvantaged
in other ways when compared to two-biological-parent families. Many of these problems are
directly related to the poor economic conditions of single-parent families, and not just to
parenting styles. The circumstances under which a family becomes a single headed household
8. P a g e | 8
influences the behaviour of a child, in addition to the gender of the parent that the child resides
with.
The researchers seek to investigate these effects utilizing various methodologists and
concepts of sociological theories in an attempt to understand the mechanism of single parent
families; and to thoroughly evaluate the impact they have on their children. The researchers will
conduct the research in the confines of St. Jago High School, as the location and financial aspect
is more ideal in comparison to other institutions.
9. P a g e | 9
Literature Review
Mustapha defines socialization as “the process whereby individuals learn about the culture of
their society,” in addition to “behaviours that are acceptable and those that are not.” (Mustapha
2013, p. 25). Family as a primary agent of socialization is tasked in teaching their children the
values and norms of society, molding that child into a social being capable of interacting in and
meeting the expectations of society. How a child is socialized is dependent on his/her family
structure, attitudes and beliefs. Structural Functionalists view socialization as a vital role of the
family because the stability of society was threatened if children were not properly socialized.
Edith Clarke discovered in her Ethnographic Study in Jamaica that successful performance of
socialization was dependent on how closely the family conformed to the nuclear family structure.
A concerning change in family structure and its subsequent impacts has propelled the researchers
to investigate this historical social phenomenon. Majority of the researchers reside within a
single-parent household and has had experiences with some of the challenges associated with
this particular family structure, hence, their personal interest in the topic. One specific researcher
has an interest in political science, hence, would like to thoroughly investigate these concerning
issues of that impacts society so she may address the issue given the chance.
Challenges surrounding single parent households are diverse, as the challenges revolves
around the circumstances under which the family became a one parent headed household. One of
the most common challenges faced by single parent household are financial challenges.
Mohammad expressed that single parent family structure “are most likely to experience financial
difficulties because one income has to cover all eventualities” (Jeniffer Mohammad, 2014, p.
172). She continued that, because of ‘immediate expenses’ that need to be covered, there is no
10. P a g e | 10
money left to ‘cushion’ a family in the event of ‘hard times’. These ‘immediate expenses’ may
also not cover academic necessities, therefore, students are left to battle their academic life with
limited resources. Haralambos and Holborn shared similar sentiment about single parent
financial state, agreeing that “…there is little doubt that it is associated with low living
standards.” (Micheal Haralambos, et.al. 2008, p.500). In article, written by Jacqueline Kirby,
M.S. she reiterated the mutual agreement that “Mother-only families are more likely to be poor
because of the lower earning capacity of women, … and lack of enforced child support from
nonresidential fathers” (https://www.3.uakron.edu/schulze/401/readings/singlearfam.htm).
Irrespective of the fact that not all single-parent families live in poverty, money is likely to be
tighter than when both parents were part of the household.
Financial struggles within single-parent families spur a chain other of other challenges, a
grave one being the inaccessibility to a proper education. To pursue of higher education within a
single parent family within majority households in the Caribbean is unlikely. The statistics
regarding children from single-parent homes, and education, are not encouraging. Multiple
sources, both scientific and empirical, state children on of single-parent families have lower test
scores and higher school dropout rates than children from two-parent families. “children who
grow up with only one of their biological parents (nearly always the mother) are disadvantaged
across a broad array of outcomes. … they are twice as likely to drop out of high school, … and
1.4 times likely to be idle—out of school and out of work—as children who grow up with both
parents.” (https://prospect.org/article/consequences-single-motherhood) Additionally, children
of single parent households have higher rates of absenteeism and overall lower educational levels
and they also suffer from decreased motivation. Mohammad noted that “all members of the
family seek a job at the earliest opportunity and so the aspirations of children to continue a
11. P a g e | 11
higher education, if they do exist, cannot be honored. In fact, children may drop out of school to
‘hustle’ income” (Jeniffer Mohammad, 2014, p.172).
Children of single parent families are often left unattended while the parent assumes their
role as breadwinner. To fulfil their economic responsibilities, parents often neglect their
emotional responsibilities to nurture and properly care for their children. Sociologists imply that
children of single-parents oftentimes receive less effective parenting and discipline, “…lack of
supervision in single-parent situations…can negatively impact their school and social
performances” (https://www.reference.com/family/disadvantages-single-parent-families-
8c062ce39d28f628). The marginal involvement in a child’s life can lead to several complex
behavioral problems such as early involvement in sexual activities, drugs, poor academic
performance, poor social skills, juvenile delinquencies, illicit substance abuse, and drinking
behaviors. Jeffery T. Cookston noted that, “In one sample of over 5,000 12-17 year-old students,
subjects from father-absent homes were found to be more likely to exhibit conduct disorders than
children from intact families (Goldstein, 1984). Adolescents from single-mother homes were
more at risk for experimentation with various illicit substances than those from intact families
(Turner, Irwin, & Millstein, 1991). Adolescents from single-parent homes are also more likely to
repeatedly use alcohol, tobacco, and illicit drugs (Selnow, 1987)” (Cookston, J. T. (1999).
Parental Supervision and Family Structure: Effects on Adolescent Problem Behaviors. Journal of
Divorce & Remarriage, 32(1-2), 109-109.)
13. P a g e | 13
RESEARCH DESIGN
The research into how socialization impacts students between the ages of twelve (12) to
fourteen (14) in single parent families will be conducted at the St Jago High School at 33 Monk
Street, Spanish Town, St Catherine, Jamaica. The research project will be in the format of a
questionnaire, that will be conducted on February 20th, 2017.
Questionnaires fall under quantitative methods of sociological research. As defined by
Earl R. Babbie, “quantitative methods emphasize objective measurements and the statistical,
mathematical, or numerical analysis of data collected through polls, questionnaires, and
surveys.” (Earl R. Babbie, 2009 p. 13). Quantitative method of research is advantageous with
accordance to positivists as the research data is believed to be measurable, comparable, easily
analyzed, objective and that hypotheses can be tested. Limitations of the research are that data is
too subjective and unreliable, generalization cannot be made and analysis is open to
misinterpretation. (Chinapoo et.al, 2014, p. 62). The quantitative method of research was
selected by the researchers as it less biased, affordable and less time consuming, in addition to
being appropriate to the study being conducted as it allows for multivariate analysis and informs
the reader of the main causes of the social phenomenon being investigated.
Mustapha interprets questionnaires as “a number of preset questions that can contain
open-ended, fixed choice, or a combination of both types of question.” (Mustapha 2013, p.49)
Chinapoo et.al expounded on this claim stating that open ended questions require additional
information from respondents, and allows for more profound information but is challenging to
14. P a g e | 14
analyze. He also noted that fixed choices are stipulated questions that require a ‘simple tick’, and
“are easy to complete, analyze and quantify since they may be precoded and the analysis maybe
be computer assisted.” (Chinapoo et.at. 2014, p. 69)
Advantages of using a questionnaire according to these authors are that it is less time
consuming for the researcher, it can be distributed to a wide geographical area and the usage of
large samples allow generalizations to be made. Both writers also shared the sentiment that data
can be easily tabulated and that the assistance of computer programs allows data to be easier
analyzed. Disadvantages expressed are that validity is reduced since respondents may lie, forget
things or unsure of how to answer a question based on its structure. Additionally, respondents
cannot answer questions that they were not asked, only ones that were asked and that researchers
make value judgements based on preset questions and answers because they make assumptions
of what is important to include and what to ignore.
Questionnaires will be administered to fifteen (15) stratified selected students, each
being asked a preliminary question. The researchers selected questionnaires as the form of
sociological research to utilize in their study as it is effortlessly administered and allows the
analytical process to be easier. Information obtained from the research will be presented in the
form of graphs, in addition to an in depth analysis of data collected.
Limitations experienced during the research were minimal to an extent. The selected
participants completed the questionnaire with little issues, except seeking clarification on some
questions. It was observed that clarification was needed as students’ misinterpreted some of the
questions asked. One student expressed that the questionnaire was too sensitive, and withdrew
his participation.
15. P a g e | 15
SOCIOLOGICAL PERSPECTIVE
The quantitative method of research is preferred by positivist. Positivism is defined as
“the philosophy underlying science where reality is understood to lie outside of individuals and
can be studied by the collection of empirical data” (Jeniffer Mohammad, 2014, p. 433).
Positivism is relevant to this research as this research method will aid the research as positivists
are of the notion that this type of data is less biased as there is little involvement from the
researcher, hence, there will be an accurate presentation of data.
For Chinapoo, quantitative research methods are advantageous because it is believed to
be measurable, objective and easy to analyze; hypotheses can be tested and comparisons can be
made. They also stated that the data can be demonstrated in numerical form, such as percentages,
means and medians or as tables. With the use of large samples to enhance validity along with
providing objective data, quantitative research is the best choice. Disadvantages expressed are
that quantitative data are too subjective, unreliable, generalizations cannot be made and analyses
are open to misinterpretation. (Chinapoo et.al, 2014, p. 63)
One sociologist that used the positivist method of research in his study is Emile
Durkheim in his study of ‘Suicide’ in 1897.
16. P a g e | 16
SAMPLE selection
The stratified random sampling technique was preferred for this research. Chinapoo and
Mustapha agreed that stratified random sampling divides the sample frame into strata based on
shared qualities or characteristics, then randomly selects the final subjects equivalently from the
different strata.
Advantages of this technique established are that “it reduces selection bias. Stratifying
the entire population before applying random sampling methods helps ensure a sample that
accurately reflects the population being studied in terms of criteria used for stratification.
Stratified random sampling is also advantageous when it can be used accurately because it
ensures each subgroup within the population receives proper representation within the sample.”
Disadvantage of this technique it is time consuming as “several conditions must be met for it to
be used properly. Researchers must identify every member of the population being studied and
classify each of them into one, and only one, subpopulation. The other challenge is accurately
sorting each member of the population into a single stratum. The sorting process becomes more
difficult, rendering stratified random sampling in in effective and less than ideal method.”
(http://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/041615/what-are-advantages-and-disadvantages-
stratified-random-sampling.asp)
The method was chosen on the basis that the respondents had to answer questions on the
questionnaire, allowing them to be relevant to the topic being investigated. Based on the
relevance of the questions, an accurate conclusion can be drawn by the statistics gathered.
17. P a g e | 17
Sorting the selected individuals into a single stratum would adequately represent the issues being
investigated, hence, making this sample purposive.
In this sampling of the population, only students’ of St Jago High School were involved.
The sampling included 15 individuals, eight males and seven females. Five individuals were
randomly selected from 1st to 3rd form, each being asked a preliminary question to investigate if
they resided in a single-parent household. The age group ranged from twelve to fourteen year
olds. For males, two were twelve years old, four thirteen years old, and two fourteen years old.
There were three twelve-year-old females, three 13 years old, and one 14 years old.
18. P a g e | 18
Questionnaire
An investigation into how socialization within single parent family impacts the behaviour
and academic performance of lower school students’ of St Jago High between the ages of
thirteen to fourteen (13-14) years old.
1) Gender
Male. Female.
2) Age
12 13 14
3) Which parent do you reside with?
Mother Father
4) Is that parent employed?
Yes No
19. P a g e | 19
If yes, what is their profession?
Self-Employed
Government Worker
Domestic Worker
Other. _________________________
5) What are the prominent issues you encounter at home?
Lack of food
Lack of clothing
Lack of academic resources
Abuse
Other:
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
________________________________________________________________________
6) How does the lack of one parental figure affect you?
Often absent from school
Low self-esteem
Misbehavior at school
Not affected
Other. ________________________________________________________________
20. P a g e | 20
7) How often do you interact with your other parent?
Very often/ daily
Few times once per week
On holidays
Never
If never/ sometimes, why?
Deceased
Migrated
Abandonment
Dysfunctional relationship with other parent
Other. ______________________________________________________________
8) What issues do you experience at school?
Low academic performance due to lack of resources.
Often disciplinary sanctions.
Alienation (Little to no friend)
No issues
Other. ________________________________________________________________
9) From whom do you receive financial assistance with academic related issues?
Parents
21. P a g e | 21
Other family members
Scholarship/ Grant
Other. _______________________________________________________________
10) Do you receive assistance with academics from parent or guardian?
Always
Often
Sometimes
Never
11) How would you grade your academic performance?
Excellent (90% and over)
Very Good (89%-80%)
Good (79%-70)
Satisfactory (69%-60)
Bad (59% and under)
12) Have you ever received disciplinary sanctions from school?
Yes No
If yes, for what reason?
Fighting
Disrespecting teachers/ schoolmates
22. P a g e | 22
Usage of profanities
Other. ________________________________________________________________
13) How often do you attend school?
Always
Often
Sometimes
14) If sometimes, why?
Illness
Parent have financial challenges
Demotivated to attend school
Other. ___________________________________________________________
15) Does your school assist you in any way?
Yes No
15b) If yes, how?
Lunch
Fare
School Fees
Other. __________________________________________________________________
24. P a g e | 24
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
Lack of food Lack of
clothing
Lack of
academic
resources
Abuse Other
7%
13%
40%
13%
27%
PERCENTAGE
ISSUES ENCOUNTERED AT HOME
Graph showing prominent issues encountered by
students at home
1) What are the prominent issues you encounter at home?
Fig. 1
25. P a g e | 25
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
40%
45%
50%
Often absent from
school
Low self-esteem Misbehahviour at
school
Not affected Other
7%
26%
13%
47%
7%
percentage
Effects of one parental figure
Graph showing how the lack of one parental figure affects
students
In figure one, 7% of students’ encountered lack of food, 13% lack of clothing, 40% lack of
academic resources, 13% abuse and 27% other
2) How does the lack of one parental figure affect you?
Fig. 2
26. P a g e | 26
In figure two, seven percent (7%) of students’ were often absent from school, another seven
percent (7%) was affected in other ways, twenty-six percent (26%) had low self-esteem, thirteen
percent (13%) misbehaved at school, and forty-seven percent (47%) were not affect.
3) How would you grade your academic performance?
0% 5% 10% 15% 20% 25% 30% 35% 40% 45% 50%
Excellent (90-100)
Very Good (89-80)
Good (79-70)
Satisfafctory (69-60)
Bad (59-0)
13%
33%
47.00%
7.00%
0%
GRADES FOR ACADEMICPROFILES
ACADEMICPERFORMANCRPROFILES
GRAPH SHOWING STUDENT'S ACADEMIC
PERFORMANCE
27. P a g e | 27
Fig. 3
In figure 3, three percent (3%) of students’ had an academic performance of excellent, thirty-
three percent (33%) very good, forty-six point seven percent (46.7%) good, six point seven
percent 6.7%) satisfactory and zero percent (0%) bad.
4) Have you ever received disciplinary sanctions from school?
28. P a g e | 28
Fig. 4
In figure 4, thirty-three (33%) percent of students’ got disciplinary sanctions for usage of
profanities, twenty-three percent (23%) for disrespecting teachers/schoolmate, seven percent
(7%) for both fighting and other and thirty percent (30%) had none.
5) What issues do you experience at school?
0%
5%
10%
15%
20%
25%
30%
35%
Fighting Disrespecting
teachers/schoolmate
Usage of profanities Other None
Percentage
Disciplinary sanctions experienced
Graph showingdisciplination sanctions recieved
by students
29. P a g e | 29
0%
7%
53%
40%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
Low academic
performance due to lack
of resources
Often disciplinary
sanctions
Alienation No issues
GRAPH SHOWING ISSUES EXPERIENCED BY
STUDENTS AT SCHOOL
Fig. 5
In figure 5, fifty-three percent (53%) of students’ experienced alienation at school, forty percent
(40%) no issues, seven percent (7%) disciplinary sanctions and zero percent (0%) low academic
performance due to lack of resources.
30. P a g e | 30
Analysis of data
In figure 1, majority of students encountered lack of academic resources at home. This issue may
be attributed to the occupation of the residing parent in addition to the cost of these academic
resources. A lesser amount of respondents said they encountered other issues at home. These
other issues could be the result of the environment, disciplinary approaches, or factors that led to
the breakup of the family structure such as infidelity or divorce. An equidistant amount of
respondents encountered lack of clothing and abuse at home. Lack of clothing may be
subsequent factor of the economic situation within the household, while abuse may be as a result
of the disciplinary strategies utilized in addition to transferred stress experienced by the parent.
Minority of the respondents encountered lack of food at home. Food is a necessity within
households, therefore, despite of financial struggles more efforts will be exerted in ensuring that
food is available within the household.
In figure 2, majority of respondents were not affected by the lack of a parental figure. This may
be as a result of visiting or common law union, hence, the respondents may have a positive male
influential figure in their life. A lesser amount of respondent’s self-esteem was affected. This
may be as a result of constant verbal abuse by mothers as well as the absenteeism of fathers in
providing a balanced social and emotional connection with their offspring thereby ensuring self-
appreciation. A medial amount of respondent said they misbehaved at school. This is by virtue of
the lack of a constant authoritative figure that effectively enforce discipline. Minority of
respondents were often absent from school. This is may be due the economic situation within the
household.
31. P a g e | 31
In figure 3, majority of respondents had a good academic performance. This may be due to
access to effective teaching methods used by teachers or due to personal incentives. A lesser
amount of students had a very good academic performance. This may also be as a result of
effective teaching methods used by teachers or due to personal incentives. Minority of students
had satisfactory academic performance. This may be because of absentmindedness within the
classroom as a result of personal issues or because the persons are slow learners. No respondent
had bad academic performance. This is by virtue of self-motivation or fear of the consequences
of failure.
In figure in 4, majority of students received disciplinary sanctions for usage of profanities. This
may be as a result of their environments and the causality in which it is used. A lesser amount of
students has never received disciplinary sanctions. This is by virtue of fear of the consequence of
disobediences or because of forced or learnt self-discipline. A medial amount of students
received disciplinary sanctions for disrespecting teachers or peers. This is subsequent of the fear
of consequences that will be enforced by administration and parent. Minority of students were
sanctioned for fighting and for other reasons with equal percentage. Fighting is owing to the
ideology that it is accepted to physically resolve conflicts (environment) while others could be as
a result of psychological impacts of the household.
In figure 5, majority of students were alienated at school. This may be subsequent of their
inability to acceptably socialize with peers due to the nature relationship bonds established at
home. A lesser amount of students had no issue, and this may be attributed to a stable parental
influence on their lives. Minority had often disciplinary sanctions and is subsequent of the lack a
constant authoritative figure while no students had low academic performance; this may be as a
result of personal incentives in addition to effective teaching methodologies.
33. P a g e | 33
Discussionof Findings
The research conducted within the confines of St Jago High School highlighted
consequences of the socio-economic situation of single parent families on students. The research
posits a number of cultural ideologies as subsequent factors for the behavioral patterns exhibited
by students. It was further highlighted that the effects of matrifocality impacted each gender
differently.
Based on data collected, it was observed that lower school students of St. Jago High
School experienced similar issues expressed by Caribbean sociologists in regards to single-
parent families. The data showed that these challenges revolved around financial struggles as the
parent is unable to sustain all areas of the child’s financial and social life. Lack of academic
resources was the main issues encountered by majority of the participants. It is important to note
that employment rate was high among participant’s parent’s, with domestic and government
working having the highest employment rate. These findings reinforced claims made by
Mohammad and others over the economic situations of single-parent households. Evidence also
pointed out to participants often being absent from school with a minority of seven percent.
Even unaffordability of basic commodity such as sufficient food for children within single-parent
families highlight the financial state of this particular family structure. Despite lack of food
having the minority of impacts of children, it is concerning given the drastic contemporary
changes within the Caribbean such as self-governance in rendering assistance to those in need.
34. P a g e | 34
The claim of children within single-parent families having lower test scores were proven
otherwise based on the research. The data collected indicated that the selected participants were
performing above the required academic standard. As indicated, majority of the participant’s
academic performance fell in the range of good, medial in very good, while the minority fell in
the range of excellent. None of the selected participants were performing poorly academically
with averages of fifty-nine and under. The causes of these academic achievements maybe due to
personal incentives as the selected participants were disadvantaged because of lack of academic
resources. Contrary to the claim of absenteeism as a contributory factor to poor academic
performance, the research proved that of the selected participants, thirteen percent indicated that
they were absent from school at least twice out of one week. Their absence had no impact on
their academic performance as their performance fell in the category of very good and good.
Some of the claims made by Jeffery T. Cookston with regards to behavioural effects on
children within single parent’s households were documented. These effects -while not as
consequential as those expressed by Cookston- seemed to have a direct impact on some of the
participant’s personality. Majority of the participants expressed that they were not affected by the
lack of a parental figure, while a lesser amount communicated that they had low self-esteem.
Males and females of third form (age 14) contributed to the majority of not being affected. The
particular effect of low self-esteem was prevalent among females between the ages of 12 to 13 in
first and second form. This may be because these respondents are at their first stages of
indolence and are more emotionally vulnerable given the absenteeism of a constant male figure
in their life.
Misbehavior at school was also another effect of single-parent families on children.
Misbehavior among children is not unique to single-parent families, none-the-less, it would have
35. P a g e | 35
been more prevalent in this family structure as the mother had to play the role of nurturer and
authoritarian, hence, disciplinary strategies utilized might be ineffective. The research noted
misbehavior at school was most common among males between the ages of 12-13. These
misbehaviors were accounted for the usage of profanities, disrespecting teachers and peers and
fighting. The behaviours displayed by the selected participants would suggest that it was
consequent to the lack of a paternal figure on their life as there was no one playing the constant
role as disciplinarian. These males are then left exposed to cultural ideologies that this is the
accepted behaviour of a ‘true man’.
36. P a g e | 36
Conclusion
In conclusion, based on data collected, the researchers draw the conclusion that
socialization within the single-parent households were negative to a major extent. Behavioural
issues expressed by the selected participants were consequences of absenteeism of the other
parent, more specifically the fathers. The absent of a constant authoritarian impacted each gender
differently as females developed low self-esteem while males exhibited obnoxious behaviours.
The data proved that although employment rate was high among parents, they still struggled
financially as they were unable to fulfil all aspects of the students’ social and academic life. Not-
withstanding these factors, majority of students were able to defy their odds and attain
commendable academic performance. It can be therefore concluded that socialization within
single parent families negatively impacted students’ behaviour more than their academic
accomplishments.
38. P a g e | 38
Wed | Mar 29, 2017
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Too Many Single Parents
Published:Sunday | April 10, 2011 | 4:00 AM
39. P a g e | 39
Dr Ralph Thompson - Ricardo Makyn/Staff Photographer
Keisha Hill, Sunday Gleaner Writer
The Jamaican society has been experiencing a steady decline in the standard of family
life and this is having far-reaching effects not only on the academic achievement of
children, but on their total behaviour.
Dr Ralph Thompson, veteran educator and education advocate, addressing a recent
Gleaner Editors' Forum, says the problem stems from the absence of a nuclear family,
which he says is critical for the early stages of a child's development.
Thompson says an increasing number of sibling, visiting relationship and single parent
families have replaced the original family structures. As is expected, these new family
types lack the support and assistance in parenting and cultural socialisation, which were
traditionally present in the nuclear and extended family.
40. P a g e | 40
"For the children, the lack of a father figure can be disturbing in their socialisation. The
problem is neither uptown nor downtown. It is right across the board. There are just too
many mothers out there playing the single-parent role," Thompson said.
Many single-parent households face specific social and economic challenges for both
the parent and the children. About 45 per cent of all Jamaican households are female
headed. Female-headed households, according to 2002 data from the Planning Institute
of Jamaica, also have a larger number of children and adult females, but have a lower
per capita consumption than those headed by males.
Also as reported by Princeton sociologist, Sara McLanahan, children from father-absent
homes manifest a number of internalising and externalising problem behaviours,
including sadness and depression, delinquency, aggression, sex role difficulties, early
initiation of sexual activity and teen pregnancy, as well as poor social and adaptive
functioning and low self-esteem.
academics affected
Thompson says as a result, school functioning is also affected with poorer performance
on academic and cognitive tests, school disciplinary problems, higher school
absenteeism and dropout rates and lower occupational attainment.
The change in family structure, Thompson says, is also seeing an increasing number of
teenage parents who are not adequately trained and prepared for the task of
motherhood.
"Too many children are having children, so they lack the requisite knowledge and
information to pass on to their children. In some cases, by the time some of these girls
reach 15, they already have two children. At this age, they do not know how to raise
children because they are children themselves," Thompson said.
41. P a g e | 41
CEO of Family Life Ministries, Dr Barry Davidson, in his research, says the father-
absent child scores lower on the IQ scale than the father-present child, which might
make the difference between primary school and high school or high school and
university.
"Those brought up under pro-longed father absence were different in mathematical
skills and lower in verbal skills. Many crimes are committed by boys who believe they
are omnipotent because they never had their fathers' limiting restraining influence," the
report said.
keisha.hill@gleanerjm.com
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