Let's delve into the social dynamics surrounding the differing perceptions and treatment of single fathers compared to single mothers in society. It's important to acknowledge that while raising a child in a two-parent household can be challenging for some, the parenting landscape is evolving. More and more parents are choosing to raise a child as a single mom or dad, a unique journey they bravely navigate.

Social perception suggests that single dads are often seen as heroes, facing a career all while caregiving, while single mothers are viewed as struggling or even neglectful. These double standards stem from traditional gender roles (let's not sugarcoat it). This is problematic for a host of reasons, but it means that society perceives single mothers and fathers differently, and it's essential to address them honestly. Research studies in the US have shown that 70% of people believe that fathers are far more capable of parenting, while only 50% think the same of single mothers. In the UK, women are 90% more likely to be seen as heroic despite social perceptions existing. While many studies on single parenthood focus on the health and well-being of single mothers, there is little data out there on comparison. However, there is still a social perception between single fathers and single mothers.

In the realm of caregiving, single fathers are often seen as less likely to take on that role. However, when they do, they are celebrated. At the same time, single mothers are expected to manage without recognition. We recognise single fathers and appreciate their role in raising children; however, childrearing is primarily women's domain, but both have their unique contributions. However, it's equally important to understand that parental success is not solely determined by gender. Parenting skills and attributes vary widely from person to person, regardless of gender. To create a more equal society, we must challenge these stereotypes and support all single parents equally. It's time to empower single parents and challenge societal norms, giving them the power to redefine their roles and contributions.

The portrayal of single parents on social media often highlights single dads as devoted and self-sacrificing, while single mothers are shown as overwhelmed or inadequate, reinforcing societal perceptions. Support systems such as family and friends tend to favour single dads, with more praise and support from communities, while single mothers receive more criticism and far less empathy and are expected to do it all. Single mothers face a lot more social pressures, but it's essential to recognise and empathise with the numerous challenges they face. These challenges need to be addressed in order to level the playing field for both single moms and dads. Many mothers feel that they are expected to deal with society's judgments, while single fathers are not held to the same responsibilities, and society tends to accept their flaws. This should be an area where there is equal ground. Furthermore, single mothers are often viewed by men without children as a burden and fail to restart a new family. In contrast, single fathers are more likely to find partners who are accepting and willing to care for other children.