Assessing the Menace of Single Parenthood in South-West Nigeria

Abstract

Globally viewed, the idea of single parenthood has become a new trend in raising children. In Nigeria, most especially in the South-West, before now the issue of single parenthood was more or less an aberration, but it has presently become a norm in raising modern children. The study categorised those that can be referred to as single parents, identified various causes of single parenthood, analysed the effects and explored measures through which the menace of single parenthood can be stemmed most especially in South-West Nigeria. The study made use of systematic review and sourced secondary data from relevant books, journal articles, periodicals, newspapers and the internet. The study found that female parents are more involved in single parenthood than male parents. The findings also revealed that divorce, separation, death of a spouse, economic challenges, mental health, teenage pregnancy, rape, domestic violence and low level of education form the main causes of single parenthood in South-West Nigeria. The study also showed that financial challenges, undue love advances, strained relationship with family members and friends, social isolation, child low education performance, shame, stigma and guilt form parts of the effects of single parenthood in South-West Nigeria. The study concluded that there is presently high rate of single parenthood in South-West Nigeria than before and stemming the tide of single parenthood in the region will require the concerted efforts of the government, non- governmental institutions and other relevant stakeholders.