The Effects of Complex Family Dynamics on Early Childhood Development: A Case Study

Abstract

This study was conducted to determine the effects of complex family dynamics on early childhood students' development. This study addresses the cognitive, social, emotional, moral, and coping mechanisms early childhood students adopt. A descriptive case study design and purposive sampling were utilized. Five respondents, from early childhood education nursery and kindergarten students, were interviewed face-to-face while observing proper health protocol. Utilizing Resiliency Theory and Carl Rogers' Self-Actualization framework, the study employed a descriptive case study design with structured interviews. Findings reveal challenges such as emotional neglect, isolation, and anxiety, counterbalanced by nurturing caregiver relationships and effective coping mechanisms. The majority of the students experience a lack of parental support and guidance due to diverse, complex family dynamics like blended families, single parenting, and families affected by divorce or separation. In addition, most of the students experience emotional difficulty, anxiety, loneliness, and isolation. Also, many of them need help socializing and following rules and regulations. Recommendations to improve these experiences include workshops and resources designed to foster parental involvement in their children’s education and emotional well-being and establishing mental health services in schools to offer counseling and support for children facing family-related challenges.