ABSTRACT

The study explores on the sociological examination of single parenthood in Makurdi local government area of Benue State with the following specific set objectives: to ascertain the causes of single parenthood, to find out the effect of single parenthood and to proffer possible solutions to the problem of single parenthood. The study adopted the functionalist theory as the theoretical framework for this study adopted the descriptive method and made use of the questionnaire and semi-structured interview as methods of data collected. On the causes of single parenthood in Makurdi local government area, the study reveals that, divorce is the cause of single parenthood. On the effects of single parenthood in Makurdi local government area, the study reveals that, parenthood affects children education. Also, on the possible solutions to the problem of single parenthood, the study findings suggest that, orientation and parental counseling as ways of solving the problem of single parenthood. Base on the research findings, the study concludes that, the family lays the psychosocial, moral and spiritual foundations in the overall development of the child. Thus, parenthood is a responsibility requiring the full cooperation of both parents who must ensure the total development of their children. This analysis becomes necessary because life in a single parent family can be stressful for both the child and the parent. Furthermore, the study recommends that, there should be enforcement of child right act and relevant laws to protect children from single parent homes and help them develop better. Also, financial and moral support to children from single parenthoods can help solve the hardship children from poor single parent homes face as some of their needs can be sorted out which will help solve the problems that will hinder their development in the society. Also, scholarship should be granted by the government to children from single parent homes in order to give them the basic education that is distorted as a result of parental separation and enhancetheir development.