A PHENOMENOLOGICAL STUDY ON THE ACADEMIC JOURNEY OF STUDENTS WITH SOLO PARENTS

EDUCATION

Children of solo parents tend to face severe challenges that can hinder their academic performance. The purpose of this phenomenological study was to explore and describe the experiences, challenges, and coping mechanisms and realizations on the academic journey of the six students with solo parents enrolled at Montevista National High School. The study which employed qualitative research design using a phenomenological approach was conducted at Montevista National High School. There were six Junior High School students wh0 were chosen as participants. Findings revealed a wide range of positive experiences encountered in their academic journey as a student with a solo parent such as self-improvement through responsibilities, well provided, becoming more responsible and independent, being supported, lots of positive things, and able to find happiness. Positive qualities were developed growing up with solo parent that contributed to their academic success such as being resilient, independent, responsible and disciplined. Also, there were lessons learned growing up with a solo parent such as becoming independent, resilient and adaptable, learning to work hard, finding happiness, and becoming responsible. The challenges that were encountered included lack of financial resources, being teased, lack of time and pressure, and being asked uncomfortably. Other challenges were difficulty to balance house chores and studies, absent parents, disagreement with parents, and having illness. Negative Issues include hearing misconceptions about teachers, misunderstanding with parent, and feeling of inadequacy. The coping mechanisms utilized to address challenges were regulating emotions, focusing on goals and ignoring negativity, leisure activity, and expressing emotions. The study recommended that schools may include a more responsive, compassionate, and effective support program that does not just teach academics, but nurtures the whole child, recognizing and actively addressing the unique realities of students growing up with solo parents.

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