Impact, adaptation, and welfare need of single-parent families in Phai Thon Sub-district, Rong Kwang District, Phrae Province

Abstract

This research aimed to 1) study basic socio-economic data on single-parent families in Phai Thon Subdistrict, and 2) analyze the economic, social, physical, and mental health impacts, adaptations, and welfare needs of single-parent families in Phai Thon Subdistrict. Data were collected using a questionnaire for interviews with 21 single-parent households out of a total of 70 single-parent households. Statistics used for data analysis included frequency, percentage, mean, and ranking.

The research results found that

1. The majority of the sample were single mothers, with an average age of 32 years, completing primary school level 4. They were born in Pai Thon Subdistrict, married and registered, and had an average of three children. They became single-parent families due to divorce and separation and did not intend to remarry.
2. Most single-parent families were farmers and were affected by the economic impact of insufficient income to cover expenses. Almost all of them did not receive child support from their previous spouses. They resolved this by borrowing from the community, seeking child support benefits, and providing legal counseling.
3. Most single-parent families were active in society, but their participation in activities decreased. They resolved this by leaving their children with parents or relatives when participating in community activities. They needed daycare centers for children under one and a half years old, and a network of single-parent families for consultation and sharing experiences.
4. Single-parent families were affected by mental health issues. They adapted by understanding their problems to accept and adapt, finding activities to avoid distraction, talking with neighbors, relatives, and relying on Dhamma.
5. Single-parent families were affected by physical health issues related to mental health, resulting from the economic burden of raising children alone. They received treatment at the subdistrict health promotion hospital. Need welfare in the form of medicine, nutritional supplements, and mobile health screening services.