Research shows that about 45 percent of youth in the U.S. now spend some time without a biological parent by late adolescence.
If we were asked to design a system for making sure that children’s basic needs were met, we would probably come up with something quite similar to the two-parent ideal. Such a design, in theory, would not only ensure that children had access to the time and money of two adults, it also would provide a system of checks and balances that promoted quality parenting.
Although having both parents around doesn’t guarantee great parenting, research shows that children raised by married parents do benefit in ways that children without both parents don’t:
>> They enjoy stronger relationships with their parents.
>> They benefit from better health.
>> They show less aggression.
>> They are less likely to experience physical, emotional or sexual abuse.
>> They are far less likely to live in poverty.
>> They do better academically.
>> They earn more as adults.
At Josh McDowell Ministry we are committed to telling the world about the love of Jesus. We’re also committed to developing resources that help parents to improve their family relationships and grow their parenting skills. Because we’re all one big family, really. God’s family. Together we rise or fall.
Josh D. McDowell
P.S. Can my team and I pray for you — or someone you know? We’d love to do so.
EN