Explaining the Lived Experiences of Children in Single-child Families: A Qualitative Study.

Background: Given Iran's decreasing fertility rate and the increasing number of single-child families in this country, a comprehensive examination of the unique experiences and challenges faced by only children is warranted. Therefore, this study aimed to explain the lived experiences of children in single-child families.

Materials and methods: In this qualitative study, a phenomenological approach was used to explain the lived experiences of children in single-child families in Ahvaz, Iran, between November 2023 and March 2024. Participants aged 18 and older were recruited to ensure they had sufficient life experience as a single child to meaningfully share their perspectives. Participants were selected through purposive sampling until data saturation was reached. Data were collected through in-depth, semistructured interviews with 18 eligible individuals who met the inclusion criteria. Data analysis was performed using Colaizzi's seven-step analysis method.

Results: Two main categories emerged: a) positive experiences, which included three subcategories of "no competition," "financial well-being," and "intimacy with parents," and b) negative experiences, involving five subcategories of "parents' excessive sensitivity," "parents' excessive expectations," "loneliness and emotional dependence," "inability to understand certain feelings," and "negative societal views of only children".

Conclusions: Based on the results of this study, it is evident that being an only child is associated with a range of challenges for individuals, families, and society at large. To mitigate these challenges, health service providers should undertake initiatives to educate and inform families and communities about the potential consequences of single-child families and offer evidence-based counseling interventions.