Which type of family structure consists of a single adult and dependent children, often due to factors such as divorce or the death of a partner?

A lone parent family is characterized by one adult who is the primary caregiver to dependent children. This family structure often arises from circumstances such as divorce, separation, or the death of a partner. The lone parent takes on the responsibility of raising the children alone, which can lead to various social, economic, and emotional challenges that differ from those experienced in more traditional family structures that include two parents.

In contrast, the other family types mentioned differ significantly in structure and dynamics. A vertically extended family typically includes multiple generations living together, such as grandparents, parents, and children. A modified extended family retains a more nuclear family setup but maintains close ties with extended relatives, whereas a horizontally extended family involves relatives of the same generation, such as siblings or cousins living nearby or involved in raising children together. Each of these structures encompasses different relationships and support systems, making the lone parent family distinct due to its singular adult presence and focus on dependent children.