Abstract
Single parenthood has become a pervasive phenomenon in Nigeria, affecting millions of families. The institution of marriage, once considered sacrosanct, is faced with significant challenges, leading to an increase in single-parent households. This trend has far-reaching social implications, affected not only the individuals involved but also the broader society. In Nigeria, single parenthood can arise from various factors, including divorce, separation, death of a spouse, unwed motherhood, and adoption. The social implications of single parenthood are multifaceted, influencing economic stability, child well-being, and social relationships. This paper aimed to examine the social implications of single parenthood in Nigeria, with a focus on the economic, emotional, and social challenges faced by single parents and their children. The paper investigated the causes and prevalence of single parenthood in Nigeria, examined the economic implications of single parenthood on families, analyse the emotional and psychological effects of single parenthood on children, explored the social support systems available to single parents in Nigeria and provide recommendations for addressing the social implications of single parenthood. This paper employed a doctrinal research methodology, utilizing both primary and secondary sources. The dissertation found out that despite the increasing prevalence of single parenthood in Nigeria, there is a dearth of comprehensive understanding and effective legal and social support systems addressing the unique challenges faced by single-parent families. The paper concluded that single parenthood has profound social implications in Nigeria, affecting economic stability, child well-being, and social relationships. The dissertation highlighted the need for comprehensive policies and programs to support single parents, including economic empowerment, psychological counselling, and social support systems. The dissertation recommended amongst others that government should establish a national policy framework to address single parenthood, economic empowerment programs, such as vocational training and microfinance schemes, should be implemented, psychological counselling services should be made available to single parents and their children, community-based social support systems should be strengthened, public awareness campaigns should be conducted to reduce stigma associated with single parenthood.
Keywords: Single parenthood, Socio-Legal Implications, and Child