EFFECT OF RUNNING SEPARATE HOME BY MARRIED COUPLES ON CHILDREN AND IMPLICATIONS OF SOCIAL WORK: A CASE STUDY OF NKANU LGA, ENUGU STATE
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Background of the Study
In recent decades, the family structure has experienced significant changes globally, with an increasing number of married couples choosing to live separately while maintaining their marital relationships. This phenomenon, often referred to as “Living Apart Together” (LAT), has raised concerns about its impact on children and family dynamics (Strohm et al., 2017). The concept of LAT arrangements has been widely discussed in Western contexts; however, its occurrence and impact in African societies, particularly in Nigeria, have received limited scholarly attention (Adebowale & Palamuleni, 2015). The current study seeks to explore the effect of married couples running separate homes on their children, with a focus on Nkanu Local Government Area (LGA) of Enugu State, Nigeria, and its implications for social work practice.
The traditional family system, characterized by co-residence of both parents and children, has been regarded as a fundamental unit of socialization and stability (Bianchi et al., 2018). However, socio-economic factors, career aspirations, and educational pursuits have led to changes in family configurations, where married couples may live apart for extended periods (Zare et al., 2017). The LAT arrangement can be voluntary, due to personal choice or involuntary, resulting from work assignments, educational opportunities, or economic necessities (Kiernan, 2017). In Nigeria, economic migration and urbanization have been significant factors driving couples to adopt LAT arrangements (Akintayo & Tunde, 2020). These shifts in family patterns have profound implications on child development, parental roles, and social work interventions.
Children growing up in LAT arrangements may experience psychological, emotional, and social challenges due to the absence of one parent from the home (Stevenson & Wolfers, 2016). Research indicates that parental absence, especially of fathers, is associated with adverse outcomes in children's emotional regulation, academic performance, and social behavior (Cheadle et al., 2015). The absence of a parent can lead to increased responsibilities for the remaining parent, often resulting in stress and potential neglect of the child's needs (Amato & Patterson, 2017). Moreover, children may struggle with identity issues and a sense of belonging when one parent is consistently absent from the household (Duku & Asante, 2022).
In the context of Nkanu LGA, Enugu State, the socio-cultural values emphasize the importance of family unity and parental presence in children's lives. However, socio-economic realities have compelled many parents to seek employment in urban centers, leaving their families behind in rural areas (Ezema et al., 2019). This migration has led to a rise in LAT arrangements, raising questions about the impact on children who are left in the care of one parent or extended family members. The effects of these arrangements are multifaceted, involving emotional, educational, and social dimensions (Nwoke, 2020).
Social work as a profession is deeply concerned with family welfare and child protection. The growing trend of LAT arrangements necessitates a closer examination of its implications for social work practice in Nigeria. Social workers play a critical role in supporting families, advocating for children's rights, and ensuring that the welfare of children is not compromised due to parental separation (Adewale, 2018). Understanding the dynamics of LAT families and their impact on children is essential for developing effective social work interventions and policies that address the unique needs of these families (Okeke & Ani, 2021).
1.2 Statement of the Problem
The phenomenon of married couples running separate homes is becoming increasingly common in Nkanu LGA, Enugu State, driven by factors such as economic migration, employment demands, and educational pursuits. While this arrangement might offer practical solutions to economic and career challenges faced by couples, it raises concerns about its impact on the well-being and development of children. Existing literature suggests that children benefit most from the presence and involvement of both parents in their lives, as it provides emotional stability, guidance, and support (Carlson, 2019). However, in LAT arrangements, the absence of one parent may lead to emotional distress, behavioral issues, and academic challenges for children (Beck et al., 2016).
The problem is further compounded by the socio-cultural expectations in Nkanu LGA, where family unity and cohabitation are highly valued. The deviation from these norms can lead to social stigmatization, affecting both the parents and the children involved in LAT arrangements. Furthermore, the lack of comprehensive social policies and support systems to address the unique needs of these families exacerbates the situation. Social workers often encounter challenges in providing adequate support to children in LAT arrangements, due to the lack of data, resources, and targeted intervention programs (Owuamanam & Alonge, 2020).
This study seeks to investigate the effects of running separate homes by married couples on children in Nkanu LGA and to understand the implications for social work practice. The focus will be on identifying the challenges faced by children in LAT families, understanding the coping mechanisms employed by these children and their caregivers, and exploring the role of social workers in mitigating the adverse effects of LAT arrangements. By shedding light on these issues, the study aims to contribute to the development of informed policies and social work practices that promote the welfare of children in LAT families.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
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To examine the prevalence of married couples living separately in Nkanu LGA, Enugu State.
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To analyze the psychological and emotional impact of LAT arrangements on children.
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To assess the educational and social outcomes of children from LAT families.
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To explore the coping mechanisms employed by children and caregivers in LAT arrangements.
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To identify the role of social work in supporting children and families in LAT arrangements.
1.4 Research Questions
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What is the prevalence of married couples living separately in Nkanu LGA, Enugu State?
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How do LAT arrangements affect the psychological and emotional well-being of children?
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What are the educational and social outcomes for children from LAT families?
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What coping mechanisms do children and caregivers use in LAT arrangements?
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What role do social workers play in supporting children and families in LAT arrangements?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
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There is a significant relationship between LAT arrangements and the psychological well-being of children.
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Children from LAT families have different educational outcomes compared to those from traditional co-resident families.
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The absence of a parent in LAT arrangements negatively affects the social behavior of children.
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Coping mechanisms employed by children in LAT arrangements significantly influence their emotional resilience.
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Social work interventions are effective in mitigating the adverse effects of LAT arrangements on children.
1.6 Significance of the Study
The significance of this study is manifold, encompassing both practical and theoretical dimensions. Practically, the study is expected to provide insights into the challenges and experiences of children living in LAT arrangements, which can inform the development of targeted interventions and support systems. Understanding the specific needs of these children will enable social workers, educators, and policymakers to design programs that address their emotional, psychological, and educational requirements. The study will also help in identifying effective coping mechanisms that can be promoted among children and caregivers to enhance resilience and well-being.
Theoretically, this study will contribute to the existing body of knowledge on family dynamics and child development, particularly in the context of LAT arrangements. It will expand the understanding of how non-traditional family structures impact children's growth and development in Nigerian society, where cultural norms emphasize family unity and parental involvement. The findings will provide empirical evidence that can be used to refine theories related to family systems, child psychology, and social work practices. Additionally, the study will highlight the role of social workers in supporting non-traditional families, thereby contributing to the discourse on social work interventions and family welfare.
1.7 Scope/Limitations of the Study
This study is limited to examining the effects of married couples running separate homes on children in Nkanu LGA, Enugu State. The focus will be on children aged 6 to 18 years, as this age group is most vulnerable to the impacts of parental absence. The study will not cover other forms of family arrangements such as single parenting, divorced families, or cohabiting couples. Additionally, the study will rely on self-reported data from parents, children, and social workers, which may be subject to bias. The findings may not be generalizable to other regions or cultural contexts outside of Nkanu LGA.
1.8 Definition of Terms
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Living Apart Together (LAT): A relationship arrangement in which married couples choose to live in separate households while maintaining their marital relationship.
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Parental Absence: The situation where one or both parents are not physically present in the home due to various reasons such as work, education, or other commitments.
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Emotional Well-being: The psychological state of being emotionally healthy, characterized by the ability to manage emotions, cope with stress, and maintain positive relationships.
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Coping Mechanisms: Strategies and behaviors employed by individuals to manage stress, adversity, and challenging situations.
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Social Work Interventions: Actions and programs designed by social workers to support individuals and families in addressing social, emotional, and economic challenges.
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