The experience of single mothers in raising adolescent boys : a pastoral challenge

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis is to explore the experiences of single mothers raising rebellious adolescent boys. A qualitative methodological design was followed. Thirteen single mothers were interviewed, as well as five clergies and six social workers. An in-depth qualitative analysis was undertaken, in order to investigate the subject of single mothers raising adolescent boys. The study results are presented in an integrated and descriptive tabula format. The participant’s stories were re-encountered through the researcher’s own frame of reference in which common themes of the single motherhood and adolescence were constructed. They were elaborated on and a comparative active analysis was undertaken to link them with the available literature. This information gained from the research could contribute to the existing body of knowledge; on the impact of the rebellious behaviour of the adolescent boys on the single mother, by offering a new perspective. The project was done within The Chief Albert Luthuli Municipality under the Gert Sibande District of Mpumalanga Province. It was found that most single mothers were suffering silently as there is no adequate support either from the community or the church. The study found that the behaviour of girls reflected better on their mothers compared to their counterparts who are boys.