broken homes academic performance undergraduates psychosocial factors Iyamho University Edo State

This study examined the public perception on the impact of broken homes on the academic performance of undergraduate students at Iyamho University, Edo State. Drawing on a descriptive-survey design, the research sampled undergraduate students across faculties using stratified random sampling. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire measuring family structure, home environment, and psychosocial factors, complemented by academic records (cumulative grade point average). The estimated total population of undergraduate students at the University of Iyamho is approximately 7,280 student. The Simple Random technique was adopted in this study. This technique was adopted to allow researcher select the samples on the basis of equal opportunity. It allowed the researcher to create a sample that was objective, with no population member having a higher chance of being chosen than any other.
The findings from this study revealed that parental separation significantly affects students’ concentration and commitment to academic activities. The data indicated that students from separated homes often face emotional instability, psychological stress, and divided attention, which interfere with their ability to focus on schoolwork.
The study concludes that family structure plays a significant role in shaping students’ educational outcomes. Students from stable homes were found to be more consistent, disciplined, and better motivated toward their studies. Conversely, those from broken homes were more likely to engage in maladaptive behaviors, experience academic setbacks, and show lower levels of school commitment. It recommends that tertiary institutions should establish and adequately fund guidance and counseling units that cater to the emotional and psychological needs of students from broken homes and also Parents, regardless of marital status, should prioritize the educational welfare of their children. They should maintain open communication, emotional support, and financial contributions to ensure the child’s academic stability despite family separation.