The parent-child relationship in high school girl students’ academic achievement in mother-headed families: A qualitative research

Parents play an important role in the education status of their children. Academic achievement of single-parent students in the parent-child relationship context is one of the most controversial issues considered by students and families. The aim of this qualitative study was to explore the parent-child relationship in students’ academic achievement path among mother-headed families. Participants were 10 high school girl students sponsored by Sahib Al-Zaman (AJ) institute selected through purposeful sampling. Data were collected during semi-structured interviews and analyzed by the thematic analysis method. Results included one main theme called the parent-child relationship in students’ academic achievement path and six categories called paternal and maternal role integration, family relationship -oriented, maternal support, provision of developmental needs, pattern of mother, and success seeking. This research provides a new understanding of the parent-child relationship in the academic achievement experience of mother- headed students. Paternal and maternal role integration along with mother’s support, making relationship-oriented environment in family, and provision of the child's developmental needs are the most important responsibilities of mothers. Also, pattern of mother and success seeking can have a positive effect on educational status of the students.