Ibadan Journal of the Social Sciences
Volume 23, No. 1, 2025
DOI: 10.36108/ijss/5202.32.0130
Perspectives on Single Parenting and Child Mental Health in Lagos State, Nigeria
Idowu Lydia Olusanya1 and Olufunke Olufunsho Adegoke2
1,2Department of Sociology, University of Ibadan, Nigeria
Abstract
This study focused on single parenting among women in Nigeria, specifically in the Kosofe, Surulere, Shomolu, and Oshodi-Isolo Local Government Areas in Lagos State. The study used Talcott Parsons’ Structural Functionalism Theory and John Bowlby’s Attachment Theory to explore the perspectives on single parenting and its impact on child mental health. The objectives of the study included examining parent-child relationships, perceptions of single parenting’s influence on child mental health, factors affecting single parents’ roles, and measures to support child mental health. The research design was descriptive and cross-sectional, and data were collected from 384 adults aged 18 years and above using questionnaires. Additionally, 10 in-depth interviews with single parents and 5 key informant interviews with mental health professionals were conducted. The findings revealed that majority of the female respondents (71.3%) aged 20-29 years were single parents. Also, 56.3% emphasize the critical role of parental bonds in child’s mental functioning. Qualitative insights underscore the impact of parental absence and caregiving quality on emotional security. Perceptions of single parenting at the quantitative phase reveal societal stigma and challenges, with 39.5% who perceived single parents as victims of oppression and 43% facing social stigma attached to single parenting. A significant majority (92.1%) strongly agree that positive parenting enhances children’s behaviour. Qualitative findings delve into the complexities of societal attitudes towards single parents. Factors influencing single parents’ roles include income instability, ethnic background, unemployment, and inadequate support systems. Both qualitative and quantitative data elucidate these factors. Measures to support children’s mental health in single parenting encompass adequate provision for the child, a quality environment, good family relationships, community support systems, social assistance, social networks, and professional assistance. The study concludes that adequate parenting is critical for child mental health, and advocated for timely interventions, awareness campaigns, and necessary support for single parents.
Keywords: Single parents, children, mental health, Lagos State Nigeria