EFFECTS-OF-PARENTAL-SEPARATION-ON-CHILDREN.docx

**EFFECTS OF PARENTAL SEPARATION ON CHILDREN** **Negros Oriental State University** **Academic Year 2024-2025** **\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_** **A Review of Related Literature** **"Effects of Parental Separation on Children"** **\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_** In partial fulfillment of the requirements in GEN 301: Marriage and Family Relations **\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_** **Jake P. Baldado** **Aldin E. Lobrio Jr.** **Harra Jill P. Padejas** **John Michael Y. Rentura** **Angel Gift Y. Tranilla** **BACHELOR OF ARTS MAJOR IN GENERAL CURRICULUM - 3^RD^ YEAR** **1.0 INTRODUCTION** Family is the basic unit of the society that helps foster the well-being of the children. Hence, a family is not intact when the parents are separated due to issues and problems that they face on their journey with each other (Caab, Imperial, Jumao-as, Tubiano, Perez, Castillo, & MaPhilo, 2024) I). It is a vital component of society where the foundations of socialization and moral development are laid. It plays a pivotal role in meeting the fundamental requirements of its members, particularly children, and creating a supportive atmosphere for their growth. Parental separation has been associated with reduced cognitive development and educational performance. In the Philippines, although divorce is not legalized in the country, there are other legal measures provided in the constitution such as annulment, declaration of nullity of marriage, and legal separation. However, in legal separation, the marriage bond is still in full force hindering both parties from remarrying. Based on a research article titled "Divorce and separation in the Philippines: Trends and correlates" (Abalos, 2017) there is a rise in the number of Filipinos who are informally separated meaning that they didn't go through the legal procedures. It's mainly because going through the legal remedies is a long and complex journey, not to mention the amount of money they would be spending just to file a petition without the assurance that it would be granted. We included informal separation as another type of parental separation since divorce is not legalized in the Philippines. With the parents separated, most children experience extreme sadness, loneliness, and anxiety due to the breakdown of the family. These emotional struggles often lead to challenges in school, such as lower academic performance and skipping classes. Social relationships can also be affected, as children may find it harder to trust others or build healthy connections. Financial problems in single-parent households often add to the difficulties. However, the support of extended families, which is common in Filipino culture, can help lessen the impact. Despite this, children may still face societal judgment and emotional challenges, emphasizing the need for more support systems to help them cope effectively. **2.0 LIMITATIONS OF THE LITERATURE REVIEW** This literature review has several limitations. The effects that are being reviewed are narrowed down to only four aspects, which are academic performance, social relation, self-concept, and socio-economic status, they are therefore subject to inadequacy and lack of certainty that can influence our analysis and its validity. One of the primary challenges we\'ve encountered in writing this literature review is identifying the limitations and scope of our review of the related literature. While we do have a wide range of sources from articles, and books, up until academic publications, most of them are inconsistent and inconclusive. The reason is that they've used different procedures and methods to obtain their data. In addition, there is a variety of usage in terms of research techniques. Most studies that we found use the most commonly used approach, which is cross-sectional studies, wherein they compare the behaviors of a child right after the separation of the child's parent and how they differ from those of a child with an intact family. For example, in Nielsen's (2014) study it was inferred that children who are living with both of their parents have greater physical and psychological well-being compared to those who are living with either their mother or their father. On the other hand, we've found no studies that made use of the longitudinal approach wherein their sample data is monitored at a particular point in time, first shortly after the marital dissolution and then a follow-up interview sometime following the parental separation. Although, cross-sectional studies are helpful they only give little information available at the time the study was conducted hence they rarely collect retrospective data. While the longitudinal approach is better at providing more information about the effects of parental separation on children it is rarely used as it is quite costly and time-consuming. The limitations included herein should be taken into account in light of our summary. The first is the generalizability of findings, the studies that are conducted vary in terms of the sample size, limiting the applicability of their findings. Secondly, factors such as the gender and age of children, race or ethnicity, along with the financial status of the family vary to the extent for which it could potentially affect the results of the studies. Next is the lack of local sources, there is quite a big difference between the numbers of studies done globally compared to studies in the Philippines which can restrict the general findings (Dagami, Cadano, Arceño, Atay, Dosal, Padullo, 2022). Lastly, regarding the age of the children at the time of the divorce, most studies don't really specify that factor thus the "children" meant in our literature review also includes adolescents and/or young adults. Another limitation that we encountered is the concern about the validity of the measurements used in many studies. In cases of emotional and psychological aspects of the child, it is hard to obtain accurate information on what the child feels like about his/her parent separating. Furthermore, the statements and observations made by adults such as teachers other than the child could be influenced by that person's stereotype about how a child should feel after the separation of his/her parents. It is also the same case with the parents as their reports may be biased depending on their relationship with their child. Finally, clinically observed behaviors are highly subjective at the same time objectively defined behaviors are also influenced by cultural norms and values which are subjected to change over time. Given these limitations, it is difficult to draw conclusive conclusions from this literature alone. Nonetheless, there are attempts made to control these limitations in affecting the overall result of the studies. For instance, we narrowed down the effects of parental separation on children to provide a more comprehensive interpretation of the topic to be discussed. This review of related literature was concluded cautiously and with full acknowledgment of the limitations stated therefore the information provided herein need not be rejected. **3.0 REVIEW OF RELATED LITERATURE** Parental separation has devastating effects on children including perceived guilt, blame, stressors, and diminished resources for the children, it is not surprising that parental separation has also been reported to affect a child's motivation, engagement negatively, and learning-related behavior in the classroom (Caab K. D., et al 2024). This literature review focuses on the effects of parental separation on children's academic performance, self-concept, social relations, and socio-economic. The following studies do not specify the age of children at the time of parental separation, psychological effects, and factors that can further affect the conclusion of this review. **3.1 ACADEMIC PERFORMANCE** Academic performance is the extent to which the learner has to achieve during their academic year; various factors, including personal circumstances, learning environment, and access to resources, can influence it. Furthermore, academic performance can be altered depending on the student\'s environment (Caab, et al., 2014). Parental separation can destroy not only the emotional and social development of children but also their academic performance. According to Sugihen, (2019), teenagers who are victims of divorce become teenagers who don\'t socialize enough and experience a decline in academic grades, and a decline in achievement both at school and outside of school, they try but are anxious, and lonely, lack self-confidence, and protracted sadness. They will be more comfortable playing outside the house, hanging out with their friends, and spending time on things that are not useful, even teenagers whose emotions are considered unstable if they are no longer paid attention to will act defiantly, such as fighting, smoking, and drinking. These challenges can show personally as behavioral problems, low school attendance, and lack of interest in learning, all of which have a negative impact on their education. However, a study by Caab, Imperial, Jumao-as, Tubiano, Perez, Castillo, and MaPhilo (2024) states otherwise. Their research shows that there is no significant relationship between parental separation and the academic performance of senior high school students in Digos City, indicating that parental separation has no direct impact on student\'s educational outcomes; these findings suggest that, while parental separation introduces challenges, other factors may mitigate its effect, like family, school, and peers, which help the student to buffer from the potential negative impact of parental separation. **3.2 SOCIAL RELATION** Social relation is a person\'s connection to other people, may it be a family, relative, friend, or neighbor. In this relationship, it includes interactions that are meaningful and essential to one\'s growth and experience. Parental separation can affect a child\'s relationship with their parents as the marital dissolution takes place. According to Bakhita (2024), parents\' separation can affect the bonds, interaction, and communication between the child and the parents. This could be because of several factors that go along with the separation of parents which are the coordination of visitation schedules, the disposition of the parents in terms of co-parenting, and how they resolve their conflicts with each other. If the marital dissolution involves high levels of parental disagreement it could cause more stress to the child (Bakhita, 2024). While almost all parental separation has negative outcomes, it is worth noting that this is on a case-to-case basis. According to Kreidl, Štípková, and Hubatková (2017), a parental separation that involves conflict between the parents will likely negatively affect the child. Furthermore, the separate living of the parents in different houses could cause the child to feel more distant from his/her parents and ultimately they could become more hostile toward each other (Yasik, Sahnaz, and Anggraeni, 2019). As stated by Ariani (2019), the children's social life is also affected as they could develop a lack of trust and difficulty in expressing their emotions toward other people. A child could also become aloof and socially awkward with their interaction with other people as the separation of their parents might bring them embarrassment and disgrace. The fact that his/her parents are already separated could make the child feel less confident and gloomy compared to other children with intact families (Mone, 2019). **3.3 SELF-CONCEPT** Self-esteem is the subjective experience of how important, valuable, or worth something is to oneself. It is the psychology of a person\'s health and also impacts relationships, productivity, and overall life satisfaction (Tushar and Seth, 2024). The family context in which a child grows and develops would create one of the bases for shaping the self-concept of the child. Difficulties are seen in some aspects of self-development for these children of divorced parents in forming a psychological picture of themselves (Angjelkoska, Stankovska, and Dimitrovski, 2015). The children find it pretty hard for them to accept themselves wholly because to them they are not yet complete as individuals. It is usually very difficult for them to convince themselves that they deserve a thing at any stage in this particular world. They would even isolate themselves from other people since they think they are burdens to others. Among the other misconceptions is their assertion that no one is good enough for them. Instead, they would think they are inferior to others just because they belong to one or the other broken home (Angjelkoska, et al., 2015). Children can sometimes behave in very selfish ways immediately after the separation of their parents. They would indulge in rebellion and would also get angry and vengeance because of their parents\' divorce. Sometimes these crimes are even committed openly as they feel completely ignored. Children, therefore, are not able to digest whatever someone else says or recommends as they would feel that their parents neglected their needs (Harahap, Ade Chita Putri, 2024). Children of separated parents would show mixed emotions due to their parent\'s separation such as sadness, confusion, anger, fear, frustration, and jealousy. Become exposed to wrong attitudes or behaviors toward social relationships, like avoidance, indifference, disrespect, and aggression (Paras, Espiritu, Escoto, Duran, Conquilla, Agustin, Artiola, Templonuevo, and Tus, 2023). **3.4 SOCIO-ECONOMIC STATUS** According to the CDC, socioeconomic and the wealth of any of the economic resources, power, and prestige are the core issues that lead individuals, communities, or countries to less or more wealth. It has an impact on the health activities that a person can be involved in, the accessibility of medical care and housing, and the way they deal with stress. A study entitled The Socio-Economic Effects of Divorce on Children in Woreta City Administration: Ethiopia states that children generally experience more disadvantageous impacts, including losses in their economic condition, due to separation of parents. Children whose parents are divorced have clothing problems, suffer from food shortages, and have financial constraints for educational expenses and entertainment. The economic condition of children is very low and perhaps even worse. These children lack adequate basic facilities such as food, shelter, and clothing, are unable to handle health matters due to insufficient cash and support, and cannot continue with school due to a lack of financial capacity to cater to their needs. Divorce is generally a problem that often has grave social and economic implications for children compared to others (Agmase, 2021). In addition, Edwards (2014), stated that children living with single mothers are much more likely to live in poverty than children living with both married parents. The fraction of children living in single-parent households is the strongest negative correlate of upward income mobility (Chetty, Hendren, Kline, and Saez, 2014). **4.0 SUMMARY** Overall, it is evident that parental separation can significantly impact various aspects of a child's life. The studies are pretty much consistent in suggesting that there are more negative effects than positive ones in almost each of the categories included in the literature review. Many children struggle with their self-image, often feeling confused or unworthy following their parents\' separation. This can result in low self-esteem and a negative perception of themselves. Furthermore, the socio-economic results of parental separation can be quite severe. Families may encounter financial hardships, limiting children\'s access to resources and opportunities, which can further affect their overall well-being. Academically, children from separated families often see a drop in their performance. The emotional distress and stress stemming from the separation can distract them from their studies, resulting in lower grades and reduced motivation. Additionally, the findings indicate that the well-being of the children is at its best if both parents are present and parental conflicts are minimal or non-existent. Children whose parents divorce or separate usually tend to perform worse in school, with their relationships with their family members, and their mental and physical well-being (Moen, 2023). Children who experience parental separation suffer from various adverse consequences. Compared to their classmates from intact families, these kids have worse outcomes, including more stress, issues with their parents, poor outlooks in life, and poor academic standing. The lives of children can be greatly affected by parental separation through emotional, behavioral, and academic difficulties. It must make children\'s welfare paramount through such simple manners as open communication and adequate emotional support during separation up to and after separation. That means parents will become more cautious when they know that a separating process has its impacts felt by the child; as well, it will ensure such not terrible but rather pleasant things take place where the child grows most easily (Sabelo, 2024). Aside from the parents themselves, support groups and therapeutic programs could also help lessen the negative effects experienced by the child. In summary, parental separation can create a ripple effect, influencing children\'s self-esteem, financial stability, academic achievement, and social relationships, making it a crucial issue to address for the well-being of those affected. Notwithstanding these effects, maintaining a quality parent-child relationship and emotional bonds will help the child adapt easily and overcome the problems they may face in adjusting to their new family structures and dynamics. **5.0 REFERENCES** Agmase N.G. (2021) *The Socio-economic Effects of Divorce on Children in Woreta City Administration, Ethiopia.* Retrieved from https://journals.innovareacademics.in/index.php/ijss/article/download/41129/24860 Amato, P. R., & Anthony, C. J. (2014) *Journal of Marriage and Family.* DOI: 10.1111/jomf.12100 Amato, P. R., & James, S. (2018). *Divorce in Europe and the United States: Commonalities and Differences Across Nations.* Family Science, 9(1), 12-25. Retrieved from https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/19424620903381583 Anderson, J. (2014). *The Impact of Family Structure on the Health of Children: Effects of Divorce.* The Linacre Quarterly, 81(4), 378-387. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1179/0024363914z.00000000087 Angjelkoska, S. (2015). *Self-image in Children of Divorced Parents.* (IJCRSEE) International Journal of Cognitive Research in Science, Engineering and Education Vol. 3, No.2, Retrieved from http://oaji.net/articles/2015/1014- 1451053992.pdf Ariani, A. I. (2019). *Dampak Perceraian Orang Tua Dalam Kehidupan Sosial Anak.* Phinisi Integration Review, 2(2), 257. DOI: https://doi.org/10.26858/pir.v2i2.10004 Bakhita J. (2024). *Impact of Divorce on Parent-Child Relationships.* Retrieved from https://carijournals.org/journals/index.php/JAS/article/download/1859/2236?srsltid=AfmBOoocUFU3zFALDgRSmRgAy7G4\_qXMau9w\_2iK\_F1ZWqjPpqvoAAtp Caab K. D., Imperial C. M., Jumao-as J., Tubiano J., Perez M. M., Castillo J. C., & MaPhilo (2024) *Influence of Parental Separation on Academic Performance of Senior High School Students.* *, Impact factor- 5.138 Page No. 1392 -- 1398.* DOI 10.58806/ijirme.2024.v3i8n13 CDC-Division for Heart Disease and Stroke Prevention. (n. d.). *Socioeconomic Factors.* Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/dhdsp/health\_equity/socioeconomic.htm Chetty R., Hendren N., Kline P., and Saez E. (2014). *The Geography of Intergenerational Mobility in the United States.* Harvard University. Retrieved from http://obs.rc.fas.harvard.edu/chetty/mobility\_geo.pdf Edwards A.N. (2014) *Dynamics of Economic Well-being: Poverty, 2009--2001: Household Economic Studies.* United States Census Bureau Web Site. Retrieved from http://www.census.gov/prod/2014pubs/p70-137.pdf Fitri, N., Nurbayan, S., & Syaifullah. (2022). *The Impact of Parental Divorce on Children\'s Social Attitudes (Study of Karampi Village, Langgudu District, Bima Regency, 5(2), 37--44* Harahap, Ade Chita, Putri. (2024). *El-Mujtama: Journal of Community Service Literature Study of the Impact of Parental Divorce on El-Mujtama: Journal Community service.* 4(2), 653--658. DOI: https://doi.org/10.47467/elmujtama.v4i2.4050 Kreidl, M., Štípková, M., Hubatková, B. (2017). *Parental Separation and Children\'s Education in a Comparative Perspective: Does the Burden Disappear When Separation is More Common.* Max Planck Institute for Demographic Research. DOI: https://doi.org/10.4054/DemRes.2017.36.3 Lansford, J. E. (2019). *Parental Divorce and Children\'s Well-Being.* American Psychologist, 74(2), 251-265. Moen, B. (2023). *The Effects of Parental Divorce and Separation on Children: Canadian Journal of Family and Youth*, 15 (2), 2023, pp. 139-145. Retrieved from https://journals.library.ualberta.ca/cjfy/index.php/cjfy/article/view/29926 Mone, H. F. (2019). *The impact of parental divorce on psychosocial development and academic achievement*. Social Harmony: Journal of Education IPS*, 6(2), 155--163. 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(2023). *Ang Naging Kamalayan Bunga Ng Hiwalayan: Understanding Young Adults' Attitudes Towards Parental Separation.* DOI: 10.5281/zenodo.7749977 Sabelo, C. I. (2024). *Parental Separation: An Exploration on Learner's Psychosocial Well-Being.* DOI: 10.47191/ijmra/v7-i03-04, Impact Factor: 8.22 Sugihen, N. A. B. (2019). *Perkembangan Sosial Remaja Pada Keluaraga yang Bercerai.* Jurnal Ilmiah Mahasiswa FISIP Unsyiah, 2(November), 1--13. Retrieved from https://jim.usk.ac.id/FISIP/article/view/5536 Tushar K., Seth S. R. (2024). *The Impact of Family Environment on Self-Esteem and Resilience among College Day Scholars and Hostellers*. DOI: 10.25215/1202.122 https://www.ijip.in Widiastuti, R. Y. (2015). *Dampak Perceraian Pada Perkembangan Sosial Dan Emosional Anak Usia 5-6 Tahun*. Jurnal PG-PAUD Trunojoyo, 2(2), 76--149. Retrieved from https://eco-entrepreneur.trunojoyo.ac.id/pgpaudtrunojoyo/article/view/1829 Yasik, F., Sahnaz, A., & Anggraeni, D. (2019). *The Impact of Divorce on Behavior Children and Learning Outcomes (Case Study of Mi Al-Khairiyah Students in Duri Kosambi Village Cengkareng-West Jakarta)*. Mozaic Islam Nusantara, 5(1), 1--18. Retrieved from https://www.journal.unusia.ac.id/index.php/mozaic/article/view/128

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