Project Title: Effects of Broken Home on Child Development in Kendev Council Ward,

Unum Local Government Area of Benue State.

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 ABSTRACT

The study examines the causes and the implications of broken homes on child
development. This is as a result of the fact that the scourge of criminality and any other
social vises are attributed to children from broken homes. The study reviewed some
relevant literature based on the objectives of the study, and functionalist theories and
perspectives were used to explain the phenomenon being investigated. Questionnaires,
in-depth interviews were the instruments used to collect data which was analysed and
presented in tabular forms. The study also revealed some of the causes of broken homes
which were confirmed during the research. It also identified a number of consequences
of broken homes on child development. The study equally explored various strategies
adopted by the children from broken homes to cope with the situation they found
themselves. Also various suggestions were obtained on how to curb or mitigate the
incidence of divorce.

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 CHAPTER ONE

GENERAL INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

The family unit is fundamental to a child's development. A stable home

environment provides emotional security and fosters healthy growth. However,

broken homes characterized by divorce, separation, or parental absence can

significantly disrupt this process. In Kendev Council Ward Ukum Local

Government Area of Benue State, the increasing incidence of broken homes raises

concerns about its effects on child development, impacting emotional, social, and

educational outcomes.

The family is the oldest institution in history and remains the most

irreducible nucleus of all known societies. It is established by the institution of

marriage, ensures the reproduction of human species and confers executive

conjugal right on couples. According to Aku (2007), the family is regarded as the

oldest institution on earth that plays an important role in human society. It is a

universal social institution, but the types vary from one society to the other and

also from one culture to another.

The variation in family composition gives rise to the different types of

family, namely; extended and nuclear family. In the pre-colonial African society

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the extended family system was most cherished, unlike in the western societies,

which cherished the nuclear type of family. In Nigeria today, the family is

increasingly oriented towards nuclear type where it consists of father, mother and

children, however, there are modifications as the nuclear extended types of

families accommodate some extended family members like grandparents,

siblings’etc grand-parents.

In general, the family whether nuclear or extended, performs functions such

as, procreation, sex regulation, socialization, security, emotional support etc.

The family usually begins with marriage. It creates new social relationships,

roles, rights and obligations not just between the spouses or partners but between

the kinsmen on both sides of the couple. Marriage is a union between man and a

woman or women such that children born to the woman are recognized as

legitimate offspring of both parents (Igbo, 2003).

In Africa, marriage is usually accompanied with elaborate ceremonies which

are primarily aimed at enhancing the stability of the union. Among such

ceremonies are religious rituals, payment of bride wealth, and involvement of

spouses’families among others, which seem to make divorce a rare phenomenon

in pre-colonial times (Aku, ibid).

In most cultures marriage is meant to be a lifelong contract, but the stability

that characterize pre-colonial African families seems to have disappeared with the
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 alarming incidence of divorce and separation. It would appear that families in

contemporary time are confronted by a myriad of pressures which are yet to be

properly addressed (Fumerayem, 1991).

Some pressures sometimes result in failed marriages, either through divorce

or separation. Failed marriages could also mean homes where there is persistent

conflict or where there is residential separation between spouses who were

hitherto living together in legitimate marital cohabitation.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Children from broken homes often face challenges such as emotional

instability, poor academic performance, and behavioral issues.

These have cause a lot of problems leading to retard growth, school dropout,

increase rate in criminal practices etc especially among children from Kendev

Council Ward, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State.

This therefore, has prompted the researcher to seek to know the causes that

lead to broken homes, determine the effect on child development, examine the

consequences to the community and identify factors that can discourage the act.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

The objective of this study is to assess the effects of broken home on child

development in Kendev Council Ward, Unum Local Government Area of Benue

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 State.

The specific objectives of the study include.

a. To ascertain the causes that leads to broken homes

b. To determine the effect of broken homes on child development

c. To examine the consequences of broken homes to the community

d. To identify measures that can discourage the act, and

e. To prefer solution to broken homes

1.4 Research Questions

i. What are the causes that lead to broken homes?

ii. What are the effects of broken homes on child’s development?

iii. What are the consequences of broken home in the community?

iv. What are the measures that can discourage the act, leads to broken homes?

v. What are the ways that can prefer solution to broken homes?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant because, at the end, it will provide recommended

ways that can discourage divorce leading to binding the relationship between

couples which in turn can promote child’s development in our communities. It

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 can also help other researchers who may want to carry out reserved on a similar

topic. The community elders can make use of this useful information to educate

their children intending to get married as well.

1.6 Scope of the Study

This research work is limited to effects of broken homes on child’s

development in Kendev Council Ward, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue

State with emphasis on identifying the causes that leads to broken homes,

determining the effect of broken homes on child’s development examine it’s

consequences, identify measures that can discourage the act as well as ways to

profer solutions in Kendev Council Ward, Ukum Local Government.

1.7 Operational Definition of Terms

Effect: A change or outcome that occurs due to a particular action, event or set of

circumstances.

Broken Homes: Refers to the family structures where the parents are separated,

divorced, or no longer living together, often resulting in one parent raising the

children. It is typically implies a disruption in the family unit, which can have

emotional, social, and psychological impacts on children.

Child’s Development: It refers to the process by which children grow and mature

in various aspects, including physical, emotional, cognitive, social, and behavioral

areas.

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 CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.0 Introduction

This chapter deals basically with review of related literatures, it contained,

theoretical framework, conceptual framework, empirical studies and summary of

review.

2.1 Theoretical Framework

This research work adopted social learning theory by Albert Bandura and

family systems theory by Murray Bowen to draw bases for easy understanding of

the research topic. Thus;

2.1.1 Social Learning Theory (Albert Bandura)

Social Learning Theory, proposed by Albert Bandura, asserts that children

learn behaviors through observation and imitation of significant others,

particularly their parents or caregivers. A broken home often involves high levels

of conflict, poor communication, and, in some cases, neglect or abuse. Children in

such environments may learn maladaptive behaviors such as aggression,

emotional withdrawal, or poor coping strategies.

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 In the context of Kendev, the social dynamics of a broken home might lead

to a child observing negative behaviors (e.g., domestic violence, substance abuse,

or verbal conflict), which could shape their behavior and social interactions in the

future. Furthermore, such environments may limit positive role models, leaving

children without the guidance needed to develop effective social skills.

2.1.2 The Family Systems Theory (Murray Bowen)

The Family Systems Theory developed by Murray Bowen emphasizes the

interdependence of family members, where the behavior of one member can

influence the entire family system. In the case of a broken home, the disruption of

the family unit can have a ripple effect, altering the roles, communication

patterns, and emotional dynamics within the family.

For instance, in a polygamous or fractured household like those that might

be found in Kendev, a child could find themselves assuming adult responsibilities,

such as caretaking or mediating conflicts, which might stifle their emotional or

social development. Additionally, if there is a lack of clear boundaries between

family members, the child might experience role confusion, leading to anxiety or

stress.

The theoretical framework for understanding the effects of broken homes

on child development in Kendev Council Ward, Ukum LGA, integrates multiple

developmental perspectives. From attachment and cognitive development to

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 ecological and sociocultural influences, a broken home can significantly disrupt a

child’s emotional, social, and cognitive development. However, community

factors, such as extended family support, community resources, and cultural

values, can play a critical role in mitigating the negative effects of family

breakdowns. Understanding these dynamics can help inform interventions and

policies aimed at supporting children from broken homes in rural Nigerian

contexts like Kendev.

2.2 Conceptual Framework

A conceptual framework for understanding the effects of broken homes on

child development focuses on key concepts derived from the objectives of the study

which include: The causes, effects, consequences, measures that discourage the act

leading to broken homes, as well as recommended ways that profer solution to it.

2.2.1 Causes of Broken Homes

The issue of broken homes and its impact on child development is a

significant concern in many regions, including Kendev Council Ward in Ukum

Local Government Area of Benue State, Nigeria. A "broken home" typically

refers to a family structure where parents are either separated, divorced, or in

conflict, leading to the breakdown of the nuclear family. This situation can have

profound and lasting effects on a child's psychological, emotional, and social

development.
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The causes of broken homes include the following

1. Parental Conflict and Divorce

In many broken homes, the primary cause is often parental conflict, leading

to divorce or separation. This creates an unstable home environment, which can

deeply affect children’s emotional well-being. Children might experience

confusion, anger, and insecurity, which can manifest in behavioral issues such as

aggression or withdrawal. In rural areas like Kendev, cultural attitudes towards

divorce or separation can exacerbate feelings of stigma, further affecting a child's

self-esteem.

2. Economic Hardship

Often, following a divorce or separation, there is a financial strain on the

family. A single parent may struggle to meet the financial needs of the children,

leading to poverty or poor living conditions. Financial instability can lead to a

lack of resources for education, healthcare, and extracurricular activities, all of

which are crucial for a child's development. Children from broken homes may

also be required to take on responsibilities such as caring for younger siblings,

which could affect their own education and social development.

3. Inadequate Parental Support

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 In the case of a broken home, one parent (often the mother, particularly in

patriarchal societies) may have to take on a more demanding role, leading to

fatigue, stress, and emotional exhaustion. As a result, the child may not receive

adequate emotional support or attention, which can hinder their emotional growth.

In the absence of both parents, children may also face neglect, which further

hinders their development.

4. Impact on Education

Children from broken homes might find it harder to concentrate on their

studies due to the emotional strain they are under. This can lead to poor academic

performance and higher dropout rates. In Kendev and similar rural areas, where

access to quality education and resources may already be limited, the negative

effects of a broken home can be compounded, making it harder for these children

to break the cycle of poverty and low educational attainment.

2.2.2 Effects of Broken Homes

The effects of broken homes on child development in Kendev Council Ward,

Ukum Local Government Area, Benue State, reflect a broader social concern that

resonates within various communities across Nigeria. A broken home is typically

defined as a family structure in which parents are separated, divorced, or one

parent is absent, leading to the child’s exposure to emotional, psychological, and

socio-economic challenges.
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1. Emotional and Psychological Effects

Children from broken homes often experience emotional instability due to

the absence of one or both parents. The disruption in family dynamics can cause

feelings of abandonment, guilt, anger, and confusion. These emotional challenges

can have long-term effects, leading to anxiety, depression, or low self-esteem. In

Kendev, where the extended family structure plays a vital role in child-rearing,

the breakdown of the nuclear family can cause children to feel a sense of loss,

which might manifest as withdrawal or aggression.

2. Educational Performance

In the context of Kendev Council Ward, where access to quality education

may already be limited due to socio-economic factors, the added stress of a

broken home can further impede a child’s academic performance. Children may

struggle with concentration, have a lack of motivation, or face challenges with

schoolwork, leading to lower academic achievement. Additionally, the absence of

a stable home environment may mean a lack of support for educational pursuits.

3. Social Behavior and Peer Relationships

The lack of a consistent and supportive parental influence in broken homes

often leads to behavioral problems. Children may develop difficulty with peer

relationships, experiencing either over-dependence on others or isolation. In rural

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 areas like Kendev, where communal ties and social networks are crucial, children

from broken homes might struggle to integrate into their communities, potentially

leading to issues like truancy, early engagement in negative peer groups, or even

involvement in criminal activities.

2.2.3 Consequences of Broken Homes

The consequences of broken homes on child development are significant,

and this issue is no different in Kendev Council Ward, Ukum Local Government

Area of Benue State. While every family is unique, there are common patterns

that emerge in communities where there are high rates of family instability,

including divorce or separation.

Here are some potential impacts on child development:

a. Social Development

Difficulty in Social Relationships: Children might have difficulty trusting

others or forming friendships because of the emotional turmoil from a broken

home. They may struggle with their social interactions or have issues with self-

esteem.

Negative Peer Influence: Children experiencing family instability may be

more susceptible to negative influences from peers, as they may seek acceptance

and comfort outside the home.

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b. Economic Consequences

Poverty and Financial Insecurity: When a home breaks apart, there may be

financial instability, particularly if there is a lack of support from one parent. This

can contribute to poverty, which in turn affects a child’s access to proper

nutrition, healthcare, and educational resources.

Limited Access to Resources: Children from broken homes may have

fewer opportunities for extracurricular activities, tutoring, and other resources that

enhance their development.

c. Cultural and Societal Impact

Stigma and Social Isolation: In some rural communities like Kendev, there

might be social stigma associated with broken homes, which can lead to feelings

of isolation. This can impact a child's self-worth and lead to further social

withdrawal.

Reinforcement of Negative Family Models: Children who grow up in

broken homes may normalize conflict or separation in their own future

relationships, perpetuating a cycle of family instability in subsequent generations.

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 d. Positive Outcomes (In Some Cases)

Resilience and Independence: Not all children from broken homes

experience negative outcomes. Some may develop resilience and become more

independent due to the challenges they face, especially if they have strong support

systems like extended family or community networks.

Empathy and Compassion: Children who have experienced hardship may

develop a greater sense of empathy, understanding, and a desire to help others in

similar situations.

2.2.4 Discouragement Measures to Broken Homes

Addressing the issue of broken homes requires a multi-faceted approach

that not only seeks to reduce the occurrence of family breakdowns but also

mitigates the negative consequences for children and society at large. Effective

measures should focus on prevention, intervention, and support for families,

particularly in communities like Kendev Council Ward, Ukum LGA of Benue

State.

i. Strengthening Pre-Marital Education

Counseling and Education Programs: Offering pre-marital counseling can

help individuals understand the responsibilities and challenges of marriage.

Programs should focus on communication, conflict resolution, and financial

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management skills, which are often at the core of marital issues. In rural areas,

local religious and community leaders can play an essential role in this.

Cultural Education: In communities like Kendev, where family ties are

often deeply rooted in cultural traditions, re-emphasizing cultural values around

marriage, family cohesion, and mutual respect can be an important preventive

measure.

ii. Promoting Conflict Resolution Skills

Marriage Counseling Services: Offering accessible marriage counseling

services can help couples deal with conflicts before they escalate to separation or

divorce. These services could be provided at community centers, local health

facilities, or through religious institutions.

Community Mediation Programs: Encouraging the use of community

elders or trained mediators to resolve marital disputes can help couples avoid

formal separations. Elders often hold significant influence in rural areas and can

offer wise counsel to struggling couples.

iii. Economic Empowerment of Families

Addressing Financial Instability: Many marriages break down due to financial

strain. Providing economic empowerment programs, such as skill acquisition,

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 vocational training, or microfinance opportunities for couples, can reduce stress

and prevent financial-related conflicts.

Support for Single Parents: For families where one parent is absent or the home

has already been broken, creating safety nets like government subsidies or

community-based support programs can ensure economic stability and reduce the

likelihood of further family breakdowns.

2.2.5 Recommended Ways to Profer Solution to Broken Homes

To address the issue of broken homes, especially in communities like

Kendev Council Ward, Ukum Local Government Area of Benue State, a variety

of solutions can be implemented. These solutions should focus on both prevention

and intervention, aiming to strengthen family structures, reduce conflicts, and

provide support for families going through difficult times. Below are some

recommended ways to provide solutions to broken homes:

a. Promote Pre-Marital Counseling and Education

Marriage Preparation Programs: Establishing comprehensive pre-marital

counseling and educational programs can help couples understand the challenges

and responsibilities of marriage. Topics should include communication skills,

conflict resolution, financial planning, and parenting.

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 Cultural and Religious Support: In many rural communities, cultural and

religious leaders hold significant influence. They can be trained to conduct

marriage counseling and provide advice on family values and conflict

management.

b. Strengthen Marriage Counseling and Mediation Services

Access to Counseling: Providing accessible marriage counseling services

for couples facing difficulties can help address problems before they escalate.

This could include both secular and faith-based counseling, ensuring that different

needs are met.

Community Mediation: Encouraging local elders or trained community

mediators to intervene in marital conflicts can prevent escalations. These

mediators can help couples work through their issues without resorting to divorce

or separation.

c. Enhance Family Support Systems

Establish Family Support Centers: Setting up community-based centers that

offer counseling, parenting classes, and emotional support can provide families

with tools to cope with challenges. These centers could also offer legal support

and guidance on how to handle domestic conflicts.

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 Role of Extended Families: In rural settings like Kendev, the extended

family plays an important role in child-rearing and emotional support.

Encouraging extended family members to support nuclear families can help

mitigate the effects of stress and conflict within the home.

2.3 Empirical Studies

Empirical research on the effect of broken homes on child development has

highlighted a range of outcomes related to emotional, social, and cognitive

development. These studies provide concrete evidence regarding how parental

separation or divorce impacts children, with variations observed based on cultural

contexts, socioeconomic factors, and available support systems. Below are key

empirical studies and findings that offer insight into the topic, particularly in

contexts similar to Kendev Council Ward, Ukum LGA, Benue State.

2.3.1 Emotional and Psychological Impact of Broken Homes

A significant body of research has established that children from broken

homes often experience higher levels of psychological distress, including anxiety,

depression, and low self-esteem. For example:

Amato (2001) conducted a comprehensive review of studies on the effects

of divorce and found that children of divorced parents were more likely to

experience emotional and behavioral problems compared to children from intact

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 families. Common issues included depression, anxiety, and an increased

likelihood of substance abuse during adolescence.

Sandler et al. (2003) investigated the long-term effects of divorce on

children's emotional well-being. The study found that children of divorced parents

were more prone to mental health issues, but those with higher levels of social

support (e.g., extended family, friends, community) exhibited better psychological

outcomes. This finding is particularly relevant in rural communities like Kendev,

where extended family and communal networks can influence a child's emotional

resilience.

In the context of Kendev, where extended families often play an essential

role, it is likely that the availability of these social support systems could buffer

some of the negative emotional effects associated with family breakdown.

However, the loss of either parent or ongoing parental conflict might still result in

emotional insecurity.

2.3.2 Social and Behavioral Impact of Broken Homes

Research has consistently shown that children from broken homes may

have more challenges in developing social skills and engaging in healthy peer

relationships. The instability in the home environment, coupled with the

emotional distress, often translates into behavioral problems:

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 Hetherington and Stanley-Hagan (1999) found that children of divorced

parents exhibited more aggressive behavior, lower academic performance, and

had difficulty forming stable peer relationships. This was linked to the emotional

turmoil resulting from the parental separation.

Crosnoe (2001) studied the effect of family structure on adolescent

behavior and found that children from divorced families were more likely to

engage in delinquent behaviors, particularly in environments where there was

minimal community involvement or supervision.

In rural areas like Kendev, where the presence of traditional social

structures (e.g., elders and community leaders) can play a key role, children may

have both more oversight and greater social pressure to conform to group norms.

However, if the family is significantly fractured, the child may still face

challenges in developing healthy social behavior.

2.3.3 Cognitive and Academic Outcomes of Broken Homes

Children from broken homes often experience academic challenges, which

are sometimes linked to the emotional and social issues they face. Several studies

have documented a decline in school performance and cognitive development in

children whose parents have divorced or separated:

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 Jeynes (2002) conducted a meta-analysis of studies on the academic

performance of children from divorced families and found that they generally

performed worse in school than children from intact families. The effect was

particularly pronounced for children in lower socioeconomic brackets, where

external resources for educational support were more limited.

In the context of Kendev, children may face compounded challenges

related to education. In rural areas like Kendev, where educational infrastructure

may be less developed, the emotional and social stress caused by parental

separation could negatively impact the child’s focus and performance in school.

The lack of adequate academic support, especially when a parent is absent, could

further exacerbate these issues.

Empirical studies on the effects of broken homes on child development

consistently highlight the potential negative outcomes, such as emotional distress,

behavioral problems, and academic difficulties. However, these studies also

underscore the importance of social support, community involvement, and

resilience in mitigating these effects. In the context of Kendev Council Ward, the

communal support systems—especially extended family and local networks—

could play a key role in shaping children’s responses to parental separation. As

such, understanding the local socio-cultural dynamics and available resources is

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 essential for designing effective interventions and supporting children from

broken homes in rural Nigerian settings.

2.4 Summary of Review

The discussion provides an in-depth analysis of the theoretical, conceptual,

and empirical dimensions of the effects of broken homes on child development.

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 CHAPTER THREE

RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Research Design

A mixed-methods approach will be employed, combining quantitative surveys

and qualitative interviews.

Utilize an ex post facto (causal-comparative) design following similar

methodology used in Nigerian studies to explore how existing family structures

(broken vs intact homes) relate to developmental outcomes in children. This

design is appropriate since the “broken home” factor isn’t manipulated it already

exists, and you're examining its effects.

3.2 Population and Sample

The target population includes children from broken homes and their caregivers in

Kendev Council Ward. A stratified sampling technique will be used to ensure

representation.

Population: All children aged 6–17 years residing in Kendev Ward.

Sample Size: 100 children: 50 from broken homes, 50 from intact homes.

Additionally, 10 parents/guardians and ~10 school teachers/counselors.

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3.3 Sampling Techniques

A random sampling technique will be used to select households with children

from broken homes. Cluster sampling to identify schools/communities.

Within each cluster, use purposive sampling to select children from both home

types (broken and intact).

3.4 Data Collection Instruments

The purpose of this study is to investigate the effects of broken homes on

child development in Kendev Council Ward. This study aims to collect data on

the experiences of children from broken homes and identify the challenges they

face in their development.

3.5 Data Analysis

Quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical software, while qualitative data

will be thematically analyzed to extract key insights.

3.6 Survey Design

A questionnaire will be designed to collect data on demographic characteristics,

family background, and child development outcomes.

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 A list of households in Kendev Council will be obtained from the local

government authority.

3.7 Ethical Considerations

Informed consent will be obtained from participants, and confidentiality will be

maintained throughout the study.

This project aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of how broken

homes affect child development in Kendev Council Ward, offering valuable

insights for stakeholders and policymakers.

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