I disagree fubar, I think people do need other people. We are at heart, social animals. One of the things I've realized since getting hitched and popping out a sprog(and other Mom's that I talk to echo this) is the need to return to the "village" way of living. Where you have an extended network of people to help you shelter, clothe, feed and educate a child.

I have nothing but respect for single parents, because raising a child is hard, even when you have both parents doing it! Children need more than just two parents to raise them, they need grandparents, older siblings, Aunts, Uncles, cousins, friends, teachers, etc! All of these people are vital in the rearing of a happy, healthy child.