BROKEN HOMES

This study examined the perceived impact of broken homes on the academic performance of students in public secondary schools in Ovia North-East Local Government Area of Edo State and the implications for community development. The family is a critical social unit that provides emotional, psychological, and educational support for children, and any disruption to this structure may negatively influence students’ learning outcomes. The study was guided by four research questions focusing on the causes of broken homes, the academic challenges faced by affected students, the emotional and psychological effects
of family instability, and the broader implications for community development. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population comprised students in public secondary schools within Ovia North-East Local overnment Area, from which an appropriate sample was drawn. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistical methods. Findings revealed that broken homes are mainly caused by divorce, separation, death of a parent, economic hardship, marital conflict, and neglect. Students from broken homes were found to experience poor academic performance manifested in low motivation, poor concentration, irregular school attendance, emotional distress, and inadequate parental support. The study also revealed that emotional and psychological problems such as anxiety, low self- esteem, and depression significantly affect students’ academic achievement. Furthermore, the findings indicated that broken homes negatively impact community development through increased school dropout rates, reduced human capital development, and higher
involvement of youths in social vices.