EFFECT OF CHILDHOOD EXPERIENCES AND TRAUMA ON THE INTERPERSONAL RELATIOSHIP OF STUDENT OF UNIVERSITY OF BENIN, BENIN CITY.

This study investigates the effects of childhood experiences and trauma on the interpersonal relationships of students at the University of Benin, Benin City. The research was guided by four key objectives: to examine the causes of childhood trauma, investigate its effects on interpersonal relationships, identify the most prevalent forms of trauma, and determine supportive measures for affected students. Employing a descriptive survey design, data were collected from a sample of 150 students across three halls of residence using a semi- structured questionnaire. The findings reveal a high prevalence of childhood trauma, with key contributing factors being parental neglect (26.67%) and emotional abuse (18%). A significant proportion of respondents (46.67%) reported that these experiences adversely affect their ability to interact with others, with 43.33% finding it difficult to trust people. The study concludes that childhood trauma is a critical determinant of relational dysfunction among students, leading to challenges in trust formation and emotional regulation. It recommends the establishment of a trauma-informed counselling unit within the university, targeted psychoeducation for parents, and the strengthening of child protection laws by policymakers to mitigate these effects and promote healthier interpersonal relationships
among the student population.