Supporting Factors for Grit and Mental Well-Being in Single-parents: An Exploratory Study

Mutia Husna Avezahra (Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia)
Ananda Puspitasari (Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia)
Salma Alfiyyah Dienariantie (Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia)
Tiara Dini Areta (Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia)
Zulfauzy Abu Hasmy (Faculty of Education and Psychology, Universitas Negeri Manado, Manado, Indonesia)
Ikhwanul Ihsan Armalid (Faculty of Psychology, Universitas Negeri Malang, Malang, Indonesia)

Motiva: Jurnal Psikologi
Vol 9, No 1 (2026)

The growing trend of single-parenthood in Indonesia imposes full childrearing responsibility and unique challenges that significantly impact parental well-being. This study aims to explore how grit supports emotional stability and mental well-being among single-parents in managing dual-role demands. This qualitative, phenomenological study investigates how the psychological construct of grit supports single-parents' emotional stability and their ability to navigate complex daily demands. The sample consisted of three participants characterized by a background of divorce or bereavement. Data were collected through in-depth interviews and analyzed using thematic analysis. Findings show that participants managed financial, parenting, and work-related challenges through persistence and determination. This grit is heavily bolstered by social support—through emotional and social support, which serves as a primary supporting factor that enables individuals to survive emotionally and maintain their mental stability. These results underscore the importance of resilience-focused interventions, including counseling support, peer-support groups, and community-based programs for single-parents.