Unlawful Children: Understanding the Challenges of Illegitimacy

Illegitimacy is colloquially known as a social stigma, a term used to describe the status of a child born out of wedlock. In the past, the child would be ostracized and shunned from society, and the mother deemed a social pariah. Fortunately, times have changed, and society views illegitimacy more forgivingly. Nevertheless, there are still challenges to be addressed with regards to illegitimate children, and this article aims to shed light on some of them.

The Challenges of Single Parenthood

Unwed mothers, who give birth to illegitimate children, often have to battle multiple challenges. In most cases, they are left alone to raise their children, with no support from the father. They have to take on the dual responsibility of being both the breadwinner and the caregiver. We must recognize that single parenthood is not easy and requires a lot of support to help the mother and child thrive.

One of the key issues that unwed mothers face is that they are more vulnerable to poverty. With no spouse to support them, many single mothers end up being in low-paying jobs, and this restricts their ability to provide for the needs of their children adequately. Additionally, single mothers may also face discrimination in the workplace, which further limits their earning capacities.

Negative Impact on the Child's Life

Children born out of wedlock also face a unique set of emotional and social challenges. As they grow, they begin to understand that their parents' relationship was not fully formed, and they may struggle with the circumstances of their birth. Children from illegitimate families may experience feelings of anxiety, shame, and confusion about their identity. They may also feel isolated and excluded from their peers, who may come from traditional families.

The lack of a father figure can also negatively impact the child's life. Children raised in one-parent households often struggle with issues of discipline, as their mothers may not have the time and resources to devote the attention required to instill proper values in them. Boys born out of wedlock have been found to be more vulnerable to emotional problems and are more likely to become delinquent.

Redefining Family

We must recognize that the traditional concept of a family is quickly evolving. With the rise of single-parent households and same-sex parents, the old norms of what constitutes a family are no longer valid. The natural progression towards inclusivity and diversity means that we embrace all types of families, regardless of their background or how they came to exist.

Furthermore, society must be open to the idea of supporting single mothers and providing them with adequate resources to raise their children properly. This involves enacting laws and policies that protect unwed mothers from discrimination in the workplace and providing affordable healthcare and childcare facilities.

Ultimately, illegitimacy is not just a stigma against the mother or the child, but a social problem that affects everyone. We must work towards breaking down the stereotypes and myths surrounding illegitimate families and embrace all forms of family. By doing so, we will create a society that is more inclusive, diverse, and accepting.