Document Type : Original Article
Authors
1
M.A. in Educational Research, Faculty of Education and Psychology, Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University, Tabriz, Iran
2
Professor, Department of Educational Sciences, Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University, Tabriz, Iran
3
Associate Professor, Department of Educational Sciences, Azarbaijan Shahid Madani University, Tabriz, Iran
Abstract
The present study aimed to explore the lived experiences of elementary school teachers regarding the educational and behavioral challenges faced by single-parent students in District 2 of Ardabil. A qualitative approach employing descriptive phenomenology was utilized. The study population comprised elementary school teachers (grades 1–6) with professional instructional experience teaching single-parent students. Participants were selected based on the principle of theoretical saturation, which was achieved after conducting 17 in-depth, semi-structured interviews. The collected data were analyzed using Colaizzi’s seven-step descriptive phenomenological method. The findings revealed that the pedagogical and behavioral challenges of single-parent students manifest across emotional, behavioral, academic, and social dimensions. Emotionally, feelings of insecurity, emotional deprivation, anxiety, and excessive emotional dependency on the teacher emerged as primary concerns. Behaviorally, aggression, emotional volatility, maladaptive attention-seeking behaviors, and poor self-regulation were prominent. Academically, diminished motivation, impaired concentration, inconsistent homework completion, and fluctuating academic performance were identified as major challenges. Socially, issues including social withdrawal, impaired peer relations, and restricted participation in collaborative classroom activities were documented. Furthermore, familial dynamics most notably psychological distress, economic hardship experienced by the custodial parent, and the degree of home-school collaboration played a decisive role in exacerbating or mitigating these challenges. Implementing supportive pedagogical approaches, fostering a secure classroom environment, establishing effective home-school partnerships, and leveraging school counseling services can substantially mitigate educational challenges and facilitate the holistic development of single-parent students.
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