Why does the author surround Conor with unsupportive characters?

Much of Conor's struggles involve ultimately finding strength in himself. Conor is brave and strong. A shell has formed over his heart from the hardship in his life: his father has abandoned him and his mother at a young age, and then he has to live through his mother's terminal illness. By the end of the novel, Conor will actually find his strength by admitting his weakness.