Why Parenting Becomes Tough for Mothers When Fathers Are Less Involved: Experts Reveal 3 Key Reasons

Parenting is a team effort, and when one parent is less involved, it can make raising children—especially teenagers—much more challenging for the other parent. Experts emphasize that a father’s limited participation can significantly increase the difficulties mothers face while managing their children.

According to parenting coach and NLP practitioner Pushpa Sharma, when fathers are not actively engaged in their children’s upbringing, teenagers between 16 and 18 years often become harder to manage, which directly affects the mother.

Here are the three major reasons why mothers struggle in such situations:

1. Mothers Take on Both Caretaker and Controller Roles

When fathers are absent—emotionally or practically—mothers are forced to play dual roles: nurturing caretaker and strict controller. This double responsibility can weaken the mother’s authority over time, leading children to test boundaries and push limits.

2. Selective Behavior from Children

Children often sense that mothers are more empathetic and prone to guilt. This can lead them to behave rebelliously toward their mother while acting differently in front of their father. Such selective behavior makes it difficult for the mother to maintain consistent discipline and control.

3. Frustration and Testing Limits

For teenagers, fathers represent boundaries, structure, and safety. When this role is absent, frustration often gets directed toward the mother, who is more accessible. Mothers, in turn, may become hyper-alert, overthink situations, and adopt fear-based parenting. Teenagers may repeatedly challenge an unstable parent, further increasing stress at home.

Experts agree that the presence and active involvement of fathers are essential to maintain balance, reduce frustration, and ensure effective parenting. Without this support, mothers often face a disproportionate share of challenges, particularly during the adolescent years.

Disclaimer: The information in this article is based on expert commentary and social media sources. New India Times (NBT) does not take responsibility for its accuracy. Always consult a professional for personalized guidance.