Inner Child Issues akibat Fatherless: Telaah Psikologis dan Hukum Keluarga Islam

Abstract

This study explores the impact of father loss, whether due to death, divorce, or absence, on children’s emotional, psychological, and social development, as well as from the perspective of Islamic family law. Findings from in-depth interviews reveal that the absence of a father not only creates inner child issues but also affects children’s motivation, academic performance, social relationships, and perceptions of future marriage. Although some children develop independence as a coping mechanism, the emotional burden remains significant. From the standpoint of Islamic family law, this condition reflects the neglect of paternal obligations as emphasized in the Qur’an, Hadith, and the Compilation of Islamic Law regarding financial support, caregiving, and moral guidance. Family support, particularly from mothers and extended relatives, plays a crucial role in mitigating these negative impacts, underscoring the importance of a father’s presence not only financially but also emotionally and spiritually as the foundation for children’s resilience and stability.