Impact of Broken Homes on Academic Performance Among Secondary School Students in Alimosho Local Government Area of Lagos State.

Abstract

Many individuals, particularly children, face challenges from broken families, which can impact their cognitive growth and academic performance. The study investigated the effects of broken homes on academic performance of secondary school pupils in Alimosho, Lagos State. An independent t-test with a significant threshold of 0.05 was used to analyze five hypotheses in the study, using a descriptive research design. The study employed a self-designed questionnaire known as the "Broken Homes on Academic Performance Questionnaire (BHAPQ)" with a reliability value of 0.73. Five schools were chosen using stratified sampling, and 150 participants (75 males and 75 females) were selected using systematic sampling. The study's results showed that students in senior secondary school from broken households experienced notable impacts on their academic performance, classroom engagement, cognitive development, and social adjustment. A considerable gender variation in the social adjustment among the students from these households was established. Based on the study's findings, it is recommended that parents remain with their children to support their well-being and reduce the negative effects on academic performance. Additionally, school counselling teams should be adequately trained and equipped to assist students from broken homes.