There is no doubt about it; the modern day family is different than it was a century ago. Even the past fifty years has brought about significant change to the appearance and structure of the family unit. With the rise of divorce many families are now led by one parent. Single parents understand the burden, stress, and pressure involved in raising a family. Many times, grandparents are actively involved in helping their children raise their grandchildren. The single parent family has helped to redefine the family core unit in modern day society.
In addition to single parents, grandparents may take over the parenting role completely. These family units are referred to as grandfamilies and they are becoming very common in these modern times. Grandparents are vital for keeping family values a priority, but many grandparents never realized that they would be raising their grandchildren. There is no question that this is a hard job for those who are getting along in years.
Finding balance is a growing concern with today's family diversities. Whether it is the pressures and financial responsibilities of the single parent family or overcoming the grief and emotional upheaval of a recent divorce, to the increasing challenges grandparents face when stepping back into the parenting role, families of all types need support and balance.
It is important that you build up your network of support. Family members and friends are often the first place to turn to when you need support. Others may look to their local communities. One of the benefits of building up a support network is that they can help you reinforce your family values. Instilling family values is a very important aspect of parenting and today's diverse families may find that they need to find balance and help in these areas. Since single parents and grandparents may often encounter times when they feel alone, or that they bear the weight of parenting single-handedly, the network of support can help greatly.
Turning to your local community can be an excellent way to reinforce family values and provide a way of support for parents and grandparents. Your local church is a great resource that will allow your children to develop their own qualities and participate in activities while giving you the friendships and relationships that you need to handle your parenting responsibilities. Since many single parents and grandfamilies may face financial hardships it is important to utilize resources that are available for free or at low cost. Some great resources may be found in local community groups, the library, and churches. You may even want to find another group specifically orchestrated for single parents or grandfamilies. These groups are an effective way at reducing stress and tension and having someone to talk to that understands what you are going through during the tough times is an amazing tool that will uplift your spirit.
Finally, it is important to realize that the key to remaining balanced and promoting healthy family values in today's diverse families is to keep a positive attitude. If you remain in good health and have a positive attitude your children will too.
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» left by Tracey Wilson from Michigan (1 year 281 days ago.)
Well done Well said. We are a mixture of many different diamatics that make upthe family unit. Respond to this comment
» left by Stacy Casey from New York (1 year 281 days ago.)
I agree totally. Without Family Values where would our kids be. The are the foundation.Write more! Respond to this comment
» left by Anonymous (1 year 281 days ago.)
Thank God for GrandParents. And family values are a must with our kids. Respond to this comment
» left by robert melaccio sr (1 year 280 days ago.)
"The single parent family has helped to redefine the family core unit in modern day society." That statement speaks to the brakedown of family unit and the underlying, moral and ethical relativity which is the root cause of many of the problem in my opinion in this nation. Marraige like everything else is a committment and in all aspects of society we have sought the easy way out. Now I am not condoning living in a bad situation. I am as a grandfather who supports my grandchildren living what you are saying. In my opinion it is too late for this batch of young adults and middle agers. they have taken the easy path in search of self and have no need of a partner. However, in my opinion only, if we are to be the nation we once were it is time we placed morality, love, respect and true fidelity back into the system and encouraged familes. Those who designed the downfall of the family unit have been far more succeessful then they ever imagined or hoped for. Good job, respctfully RTM PS I hope you did not take this as pointed to you? You made an excellent point.
» left by Sandy Ripperger from Iowa (1 year 280 days ago.)
Thanks for this article. Yes many things have change over the past several decades. we all need to work together as family and community to restore the values. Much break down is the fast pace life we all demand and expect. We all need to slow down and take the time to enjoy each other and give back to others. Acts of kindness do not have to be random! Respond to this comment
» left by Jo Franco from Minnesota (1 year 279 days ago.)
As a single parent due to my husbands death this is very true. The grandparents play a high key rolein my childrens lives and our local community helop and warmth has been overwhelming. The values of the community and familes have made the difference in my family life. So thankful people think outside the 4 walls they live in and give help understand and we all work together to make differences where we can. Respond to this comment
» left by James P Krehbiel(1,145) James P Krehbiel (1 year 279 days ago.)
Marcia,
Wonderful, well-written article about the complex nature of today's family dynamics. As a psychotherapist, I address these issues regularly. I have joined your fan club. Keep writing! Respond to this comment
» left by Phyliss from Hinckley MN (93 days 22 hours ago.)
We need tohave more family values. Now with the encomomy in the slump it reminds us which is important. needs and wants. however family values are greater during this time.
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