MITIGATING THE SOCIO-RELIGIOUS IMPACTS OF SINGLE PARENTHOOD ON THE TIV PEOPLE OF BENUE STATE

Abstract

Single parenthood has emerged as a prominent social phenomenon among the Tiv people of Benue State. This phenomena has various socio-religious ramifications for both parents and children, encompassing psychological, educational, moral, religious, and economic dimensions. This study investigates methods to reduce the socio-religious impact of single parenthood among the Tiv of Benue State. The study employed a qualitative research design. Data was acquired from both primary and secondary sources. Primary sources utilised oral interviews with resource individuals. The secondary sources were sourced from documented literature on the topic. Descriptive and analytical methodologies were employed for the analysis. The descriptive method delineates the problem of single parenthood, whilst the analytical method investigates the diverse strategies for alleviating the socio-religious repercussions of single parenthood among the Tiv of Benue State. Research indicated that the socio-religious consequences of single parenthood among the Tiv of Benue might be alleviated through pre-marital counselling, loyalty, mutual affection, patience, excellent manners, and ethical conduct. This study serves single parents, custodians of Tiv culture, policymakers, government entities, religious institutions, and academics by elucidating several strategies to alleviate the socio-religious ramifications of single parenthood on children. The report advises that married and prospective couples should seek pre-marital counselling and endeavour to maintain moral lives to strengthen their marital relationship and foster a harmonious family environment.