A SURVEY ON THE CAUSES  OF DIVORCE AND IT IMPACT ON THE SOCIALIZATION OF CHILDREN

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1  Background Of The Study 

Divorce is sanctioned from a cultural standpoint by the majority of ethnic groups, despite the fact that it is permitted under specific legal circumstances in developing nations like Nigeria. As a result of the behaviour, previously cohabiting spouses who are now married and have children separate by mutual agreement or division. As a consequence of the fractured homes caused by the divorce, single parent syndrome develops. Single parent syndrome is a consequence of fractured homes or divorce; in this circumstance, the child is compelled to reside with one parent and that parent is solely responsible for the child's socialisation. These factors have extensive ramifications for the child's social, psychological, and financial welfare. (Clarke-Stewart et al.., 2018)

The entire family is profoundly impacted by a divorce, including both spouses, but the child or children involved bear the brunt of the hardships. A legal divorce results in the allocation of child custody in accordance with the child's best interests. The court evaluates factors such as the living environment, access to essential amenities, and the nature of the parties' occupations prior to transferring custody of the child to one of the parties. The child could reside with the father, mother, grandparents, or other family members in the event of an unlawful divorce. Physically and emotionally underdeveloped children may encounter challenges when attempting to adapt to cohabitation with a parent or stepparent in the event that one of the parents or stepparents remarries (Amato, 2019). Socialising a child and ensuring adherence to societal norms and values are joint obligations that fall under the purview of both parents. However, the majority of parents do not intend to assume this responsibility when they are devising paths together. The majority of parents who file for divorce disregard the welfare of their child or children, as their emotional distress and wrath often take precedence over their well-being. This disregard for the child's welfare has consequences for the child's socialisation, which manifest in their lifelong conduct. (Herzog, & & Sudia, 2021).

1.2  Statement of the Problem

Every person involved in the relationship is affected when a marriage ends in divorce. Maybe no one is more impacted than kids. Children are not as mature or able to digest stressful circumstances as adults are due to their innocence. Their behaviours and responses might be anything from subdued to violent. Different impacts may arise in a growing child depending on whether the mother or father leaves the home. In Kinard,  & Reinherz(2019) states that a child's sense of self-worth and confidence may be particularly fostered by a parent's connection. 

Due to a variety of relationship modifications, marriages in Nigeria, especially in the cities, run the risk of becoming extinct as fundamental social institutions (McLanahan,  & Sandefur 2018). According to the woman's Legal Aid Centre (2017), one of the main issues Nigeria is currently confronting is marriage issues, which usually result in divorce. Between 2006 and 2007, the centre handled 1,138 cases pertaining to marital issues, an increase of 18.7%. It suggests that the primary causes of divorce are poverty, intolerance in relationships, and the widespread effects of globalisation. The Law of Child Act 2009, the Child Development Policy 1996, the Social Welfare Department, and the marital Act 1971 are only a few of the laws, policies, and programmes pertaining to child and marital issues that exist in Nigeria. However, the majority of children and women in the country still face difficulties as a result of divorce (Rinehart, Winston & Berlin 2020). Research in this field is also necessary because it has been noted that divorce significantly affects children's socialisation.  Therefore, the study is intended to assess a survey on the causes  of divorce and it impact on the socialization of children using Odupkani Local Government Cross River State as a case study.

1.3 Objective of the Study

The main objective of this study to examine survey on the causes  of divorce and it impact on the socialization of children using Odupkani Local Government Cross River State as a case study. The study will specifically focus on the aims listed below;

Assess the prevalence of divorce in Odupkani Local Government Cross River State

Ascertain the causes of divorce in Odupkani Local Government Cross River State.

Find out the effect of divorce on the socialization of children in Odupkani Local Government Cross River State.

1.4 Research Questions

The following research questions guided this study:

What is the prevalence of divorce in Odupkani Local Government Cross River State?

What the causes of divorce in Odupkani Local Government Cross River State?

What are the effect of divorce on the socialization of children in Odupkani Local Government Cross River State?

1.5 Research  Hypothesis

Ho: Divorce has no significant negative effect on the socialization of children.

Ha: Divorce has a significant negative effect on the socialization of children.

1.6 Significance of the Study

The study was intended to assess a survey on the causes  of divorce and it impact on the socialization of children. The findings of this study contribute greatly to children, family, the government and relevant institutions in Nigeria.

To the children, the study helps them to identify causes that hinder their proper development. To the family, the study helps them to know the position of their children, their responsibilities to their children and also to know the challenges facing their children after divorce. To the government and other institutions, the study helps them to understand the proper ways to handle issues regarding affected children and family. Also, the study helps the government to review laws, policies and regulations pertaining children’s welfare. On the other side.

1.7 Scope of the Study.

 The scope of this study boarders on a survey on the causes  of divorce and it impact on the socialization of children. Geographically the study will be delimited to Odupkani Local Government.

1.8 Limitations Of The Study

The researcher encountered minor obstacles when conducting the study, as with any human endeavor. The significant constraint was the scarcity of literature on the subject due to the nature of the discourse, so the researcher incurred more financial expenses and spent more time sourcing for relevant materials, literature, or information and in the data collection process, which is why the researcher resorted to a limited choice of sample size. Furthermore, the researcher did this investigation alongside other academic activities. Furthermore, the sample size was limited because only a few respondents were chosen to answer the research instrument. Despite the constraints encountered during the research, all elements were minimized in order to provide the best results and make the research effective.

1.9 Definition Of Terms

Child: Is a child is a person below the age of eighteen year.

Divorce: Is any formal separation of husband and wife according to established custom.