Abstract

Emotional competency and self-esteem of young adults (N=60, aged 18-25) raised in single-parent versus dual-parent households were compared. Emotional competency and self- esteem impact relationships, psychological adjustment, and overall wellness. It was hypothesized that early experiences and family structure indirectly influence the development of emotional intelligence and self-concept. The Emotional Competency Scale evaluated emotion expression, regulation, augmentation, and ability to operate with emotions. The Rosenberg Self-Esteem Scale assessed global self-esteem and confidence across domains like academics and social interactions. Age, gender, and socioeconomic status were controlled. Strong parent-child connections were thought to reduce group differences regardless of family structure. Results from t-tests showed young adults raised by single parents exhibited weaker emotion regulation abilities and reported lower global self-esteem. Dual parenting offers benefits for emotional intelligence and self-perception. Positive, warm parent-child relationships could counteract the risks of single parenthood. This study elucidates factors supporting resilience and healthy development independent of family structure. Future research directions and limitations are discussed.