The single-parent family. How an understanding physician can help

Families who have become separated from one of the parents by death or divorce face much stress and adjustment. In addition to carrying the extra burdens of parenting and running a household alone, the single parent may feel isolated from friends and family. Loneliness, depression, and confusion can manifest themselves in various physical and emotional ways. At the beginning of an office visit, the physician should try to ascertain whether any important changes have occurred in the patient's life and should record this information in the patient's chart. Once single parenthood is determined, the importance to the patient and the circumstances of the separation should be obtained. Children in different age-groups often demonstrate specific regressive disorders when a life crisis occurs, and a perceptive physician may spot such behavior and counsel both the parent and the child. Possibly the most effective treatment in such a situation is understanding, reassurance, and listening.