The Impact of Parental Divorce on Children's Mental Health in Akwa Ibom State
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Background of the Study
Parental divorce is a critical social phenomenon that has increasingly attracted scholarly attention due to its profound implications on children’s mental health. In Akwa Ibom State, where extended family systems and communal living have traditionally provided a buffering effect against familial disruptions, the rising incidence of divorce has presented new challenges. The disintegration of marital unions often disrupts the secure attachment that is vital for a child’s emotional and psychological development (Akpan, 2023). In recent years, socio-economic transformations and shifting cultural norms have led to a gradual erosion of traditional support networks, leaving children more exposed to the adverse consequences of parental separation.
Children experiencing parental divorce are often confronted with emotional turmoil, including feelings of abandonment, insecurity, and lowered self-esteem. Research highlights that these emotional disturbances can manifest as anxiety, depression, and even behavioral issues later in life (Ibrahim, 2024). The fragmented family environment not only affects children’s immediate psychological state but also their long-term developmental trajectory. The absence of a stable parental figure and the ensuing conflict between parents further compound the stress experienced by these children (Eze, 2024). Additionally, economic hardships that often follow a divorce can reduce access to essential resources, including mental health services, thereby exacerbating psychological distress.
In Akwa Ibom State, the traditional role of community and extended family as a safety net is weakening due to urban migration and modern lifestyles. This shift has resulted in diminished informal support systems that historically alleviated the impact of familial discord. Studies conducted locally suggest that children in post-divorce families are more vulnerable to social isolation and academic challenges, which in turn affect their overall mental well-being (Obi, 2023). Furthermore, the societal stigma attached to divorce in some quarters intensifies the psychological burden, making it essential to explore culturally appropriate interventions. Given these dynamics, it becomes crucial to examine how parental divorce specifically affects the mental health of children in this region, with an emphasis on identifying both risk and resilience factors that could inform targeted interventions (Smith, 2025).
Statement of the Problem
Despite a growing body of literature on the impacts of divorce globally, there remains a dearth of empirical research focusing on its ramifications within the cultural context of Akwa Ibom State. The unique social, economic, and cultural landscapes in the state mean that children undergoing parental divorce may experience distinct challenges that are not adequately addressed by generalized theories. Specifically, children in Akwa Ibom face compounded stressors from disrupted family dynamics, economic instability, and a declining community support system. This study posits that the psychological repercussions of divorce—such as increased anxiety, depression, and behavioral issues—are more pronounced in settings where traditional extended family support is waning (Okon, 2023).
The lack of localized data hampers the development of effective mental health interventions tailored to the needs of these children. Furthermore, the stigma associated with divorce in conservative communities often discourages open discussions about mental health, leading to underreporting and a lack of appropriate support services (Udo, 2024). Consequently, affected children may suffer in silence, with long-term implications for their social and academic development. This research seeks to bridge the gap by providing an in-depth analysis of the mental health challenges faced by children from divorced families in Akwa Ibom State. By exploring the interplay between familial disruption, socio-economic factors, and cultural attitudes, the study aims to offer evidence-based recommendations for policy and practice that can ameliorate these challenges (Ndukwe, 2025).
Objectives of the Study
- To examine the extent to which parental divorce influences the mental health outcomes of children in Akwa Ibom State.
- To identify key mediating factors—such as economic hardship and reduced social support—that exacerbate psychological distress in affected children.
- To propose culturally sensitive interventions aimed at mitigating the adverse mental health impacts of parental divorce.
Research Questions
- How does parental divorce affect children’s mental health in Akwa Ibom State?
- What mediating factors contribute to the psychological distress observed among children from divorced families?
- Which culturally sensitive interventions could effectively address the mental health needs of these children?
Research Hypotheses
- Children from divorced families in Akwa Ibom State exhibit higher levels of anxiety and depression compared to children from intact families.
- Economic hardship significantly mediates the relationship between parental divorce and adverse mental health outcomes in children.
- The presence of robust social support systems mitigates the negative psychological impact of parental divorce on children.
Scope and Limitations of the Study
This study focuses on children aged 6–18 years in Akwa Ibom State who have experienced parental divorce. It will utilize a mixed-methods approach to capture both quantitative and qualitative data. Limitations include potential reporting bias and the challenges associated with measuring mental health outcomes in diverse cultural settings. Moreover, the study’s cross-sectional design may restrict the ability to draw causal inferences.
Definitions of Terms
- Parental Divorce: The legal dissolution of marriage between parents, resulting in separate living arrangements.
- Mental Health: A state of psychological well-being in which an individual realizes their abilities, can cope with normal stresses, and can contribute to their community.
- Social Support: The perceived comfort, caring, esteem, or help an individual receives from others.
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