Evaluation of Changing Family Dynamics in Turkey through Single-Parent Families Formed by Divorce: The Case of Eskişehir Province

Abstract

Turkey is one of the countries where the divorce rate is rising and the number of single-parent families is increasing day by day. The aim of this study is to examine the changing family structure in Turkey through single parent families. Within the scope of the study, in-depth interviews were conducted with 12 single parent women living in Eskişehir using a qualitative research design. In the study, the conditions that led to the emergence of the single-parent family type and its consequences were discussed from a sociological perspective. The findings obtained from the research were analyzed using thematic analysis technique. Within the framework of four main themes, the effects of family symbols such as love, emotional satisfaction, marriage, divorce, domestic roles and responsibilities, parenthood and children on the process leading to single parenthood were evaluated. The results of the study reveal that with the change in the meaning of these symbols, the relationships between men and women are also reshaped. The fact that single-parent families are predominantly headed by women corresponds to differentiated experiences in terms of gender roles and responsibilities.