Single Parent Struggles: Assessing Problem-Solving Approaches - Essay Sample

Introduction

Scenario three is selected for assessment on the best problem-solving approach to aid in solving the problems presented. The first step is understanding the scenario and the dynamics resulting in the issues experienced. The overall problem is the medical outcome of the stressful life experienced. As a single parent, numerous the duties of two parents are compressed on to one individual resulting in overwhelming personal and familial demands. The stated personal demands are represented by occupational and academic objectives whereas familial demands are represented by caring for the children and their needs as well as elderly parents. The problem is further complicated with siblings not assisting in any of the activities for reasons unknown. With the scenario extensively assessed the next step would be the problem-solving process. Problem-solving is the active process of defining a predicament, determining its cause, identifying it, and prioritizing solutions to be used. Additionally, it is critical to note that effective problem solving involves having alternative solutions to the primary approach.

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Problem Analysis

The problem in the scenario is the high level of stress imposed as a single parent as well as a student aspiring to attain a Bachelor’s Degree within two years. As a single parent raising two toddlers is among the greatest cause of stress as their needs are demanding and frenetic. The issue is further complicated by the lack of sufficient financial support thereby necessitating the need for two occupations. They already limit the time spent with the children thereby significantly contributing to stress. Finally, with personal aspirations to attain a Bachelor’s degree within two years, the two classes attended as well as their assignments conflict with personal expectations. Even with proper time management, it will not allow for equal participation in all the mentioned activities.

As stated towards, the conclusion of the scenario, the factors contributing to the stress have resulted in both mental and physical care-related issues. As identified by the doctor, the high workload has resulted in high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and increased weight from poor dietary habits. Therefore, from the assessment of the problem, the main issue is the stress that is caused by the numerous tasking activities undertaken in the professional, personal, and familial realms. Though the medical solution offered at $200 per month is a pharmacological approach to handling stress, the main problem should be solved for an effective outcome. In other words, the medical approach will not offer satisfactory solutions as the underlying causes of the problem will still be present.

Generate Options

The process of generating options would take advantage of the brainstorming practice whereby random solutions viable to the problem are identified. It would allow for creative and unique approaches to the issue at hand. Nevertheless, among the options generated include:

• Development of a support system,
• Occasionally taking personal time for exercise or relaxation,
• Staying positive,
• Quality child care, and
• Leaning on others for assistance.

Each of the identified solutions can be potentially implemented, however, for maximum efficacy, they all must be critically assessed identifying their advantages, and disadvantages.

Options Evaluation and Decision

The first option offered was the development of a support system; it is a necessity for every single parent. It refers to the individuals with whom the children can be left with for example during a busy day. The support system may also take the form of a friend with home one can converse with reliving personal stress in the process. The advantages of the option are numerous such as the availability of individuals with whom the children can be left in their care. Additionally, they can act as emotional support systems. However, the main drawback with the option is slow adoption due to the further familiarization of both parties (Shapero et al., 2013). The duration of the period is dependent on the relationship features between the parties.

The second option was the reservation of personal time frequently. While it is important to provide for the family, chase personal goals, and attain satisfactory child development, it is important to take time off for personal wellbeing. The current physical and mental traits are attained by not taking care of personal wellness. During such periods, researchers propose non-stressful activities such as swimming, entertainment, or relaxation. It calms the mind while boosting motivation. Coupled with the third option of staying positive they play an important role in reducing the adverse effects of stress (Shapero et al., 2013). According to OSHA (Occupational Safety and Health Administration), stress is a work hazard. Moreover, the medical community associates it with high blood pressure, anxiety, heart problems, asthma, arthritis, and skin conditions among others (Greene-Clemons & Daniels, 2014). The main drawback of both approaches is that they only offer solutions to the high levels of stress but do not address the proper management strategy for the high workload.

The fourth option was the hiring of quality child care services; it has the potential for allowing better management of the workload offering more time for prioritizing activities (Forry & Hofferth, 2010). The advantage of the option is the assurance of quality child care while working in other activities. However, it faces the main limitation of increasing the financial expenditure that is already limited and tasked by the medication requirements (Forry & Hofferth, 2010). The final option was seeking assistance from others. The options offered the best of all the other mentioned solutions. It is because when it comes to quality child care, the children can be cared for by either the parents or sibling who is 2 miles away. Additionally, they can act as a support system with rapid familiarization due to close sibling relationships. By asking for support from either the close living sibling or retired parents can significantly aid in the management of duties. The only limitation with the approach which can be altered is the personal valuation of the situation by the sibling.

After the assessment of all the solutions identified from the brainstorming process, the last option of seeking assistance offers the most practical solutions to the problems. The disadvantages are limited; however, the advantages are numerous. Among the first would be the allocation of personal time allowing for better self-care (Sarsour et al., 2010). Secondly, children's requirements in terms of social needs will be attained due to prospective completion of the degree program allowing for better occupations. Finally, considering the individuals from whom assistance will request are family members (Sarsour et al., 2010). The children will not require any transitions periods due to their familiarity.

Reflection

The reflection of the decisions made will be attained after assessing the personal medical and mental progress prior to the implementation of the solution and after. A positive outcome would include reduced stress and better management of personal, professional, and academic duties. The interval for measurements will be monthly, the period is to allow for the adoption of the changes. The approach should address the cause of the issues in the scenario, stress. It was identified to cause both medical as well as psychological issues resulting in the complex lifestyle described.

Sources

Forry, N., & Hofferth, S., 2010, Maintaining Work: The Influence of Child Care Subsidies on Child Care—Related Work Disruptions. Journal Of Family Issues, 32(3), 346-368. https://doi.org/10.1177/0192513x10384467

Greene-Clemons, C., & Daniels, K.,2014, Strategies for Transforming and Extending Inquiry-Based Teaching and Learning: Placers – A New Model for Transformative Engagement and Educator Collaboration. Innovations In Higher Education, Teaching And Learning, 49-72. https://doi.org/10.1108/s2055-364120140000001005

Sarsour, K., Sheridan, M., Jutte, D., Nuru-Jeter, A., Hinshaw, S., & Boyce, W., 2010, Family Socioeconomic Status and Child Executive Functions: The Roles of Language, Home Environment, and Single Parenthood. Journal Of The International Neuropsychological Society, 17(01), 120-132. https://doi.org/10.1017/s1355617710001335

Shapero, B., Black, S., Liu, R., Klugman, J., Bender, R., Abramson, L., & Alloy, L.,2013, Stressful Life Events and Depression Symptoms: The Effect of Childhood Emotional Abuse on Stress Reactivity. Journal Of Clinical Psychology, 70(3), 209-223. https://doi.org/10.1002/jclp.22011