Abstract
Adult children of single parents face diverse challenges due to stigmatization of single parenting and different family structures compared to the stereotypical two-parent family. This study adds to understanding of adult children of single parents by drawing from three theories–attachment theory, emotional security theory, and bioecological theory–to examine the difference between adult children of two-parent and single parent families, as well as looking at those with and without multigenerational parents. Differences in attachment styles, dysfunctional relationship beliefs, and self-efficacy in relationships were investigated. Additionally, perceived stigmatization was evaluated to whether or not it was related to these outcomes. Adult children of single parents (n = 163) and two-parent families (n = 102) completed self-reports. Using multiple hierarchical regressions that controlled for age, ethnicity, gender, and perceived family childhood income, it was found that adult children raised by single parents had higher levels of anxious parent-child attachment with mothers and fathers, avoidant and anxious general attachment, dysfunctional relationship beliefs, and negative judgment of self-efficacy in relationships compared to adult children raised by two parents. Adult children raised by single parents with multigenerational parents (n = 78) compared to those not raised by multigenerational parents (n = 85) and those with higher levels of perceived stigmatization of single parenting had more negative outcomes as well. The findings underscore the importance of examining single parenting and outcomes of adult children of single parents. Suggested clinical interventions should be grounded in empirical research, emphasize protective and resiliency factors, and promote positive outcomes.