Divorce is an event that is highly undesirable for every couple and family. Divorce in any family constitutes a major transition and adjustment, especially for children, who may experience emotional and behavioral reactions due to the loss of one parent. This study on single-parenting and its effects on the social and emotional development of 5-6-year-old children was conducted with the aim of understanding the influence of divorce on children's social-emotional development. The research was carried out in Pondok Perasi Village, Ampenan, Mataram City in 2023. The study uses a descriptive qualitative approach. Data was collected through observation and interviews. The differences between single mother and single father parenting were apparent, with fathers adopting a democratic parenting style, characterized by open communication between parent and child. They establish mutually agreed-upon rules, and children are free to express their opinions, feelings, and desires. Meanwhile, mothers displayed a permissive parenting style, allowing children the freedom to behave according to their own desires. The study results indicate that the social-emotional development of children from divorced families was reasonably good, although there was a noticeable lack of involvement from one family member. Single parents assumed both the father and mother roles in fostering the social and emotional development of their children.
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