What do you call a family that is led by one parent?

A family that is led by one parent is known as a single parent family. This type of family structure emerges when one parent takes on the primary responsibility for raising the children, which may occur due to various circumstances such as divorce, separation, or the death of a partner. A single parent family can consist of one parent and their children, and the dynamics of this family can differ significantly from other family types.

In contrast, a nuclear family typically involves two parents and their children living together in a single household. A blended family occurs when one or both partners in a relationship have children from previous relationships, combining them into a new familial unit. An extended family includes a larger network of relatives beyond the immediate family, such as grandparents, aunts, uncles, and cousins, who may live together or maintain close relationships but do not fit the single parent definition. Therefore, the term single parent family specifically highlights the one-parent leadership aspect, making it the correct choice in this context.