DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND SOCIAL ADJUSTMENT OF SECONDARY SCHOOL STUDENTS, OMOKU COMMUNITY, RIVERS STATE, NIGERIA

This research explores the influence of domestic violence on the social adjustment of secondary school students in Omoku Community, Rivers State, Nigeria. Domestic violence is a pervasive issue that affects numerous families, and its impact on children, especially adolescents, can have far-reaching consequences on their social and academic development. This study aims to identify the prevalence of domestic violence within the community, analyze its effects on students’ social behaviors, and investigate gender differences in their responses to domestic violence. Additionally, the study assesses the coping mechanisms employed by students and the role of educational institutions in aiding their social adjustment. Utilizing a descriptive survey research design, data were collected from a sample of 120 secondary school students in Omoku through structured questionnaires. The research employed both descriptive and inferential statistical methods to analyze the data. The findings reveal that domestic violence significantly affects the social adjustment of students, often manifesting in aggressive behaviors, social withdrawal, difficulty in forming relationships, and poor academic performance. The results also highlight gender differences in the way students cope with domestic violence, with male and female students exhibiting varied levels of resilience and social adaptation. This study concludes that there is a critical need for targeted interventions within schools to support students affected by domestic violence. These interventions include counseling services, peer support programs, and teacher training to recognize and respond to signs of domestic abuse. Furthermore, this research advocates for increased community awareness and stricter policies to address domestic violence and its impact on the younger population. This study contributes to the growing body of literature on domestic violence and emphasizes the importance of multi-faceted approaches involving schools, families, and communities in mitigating the negative effects of domestic violence on children and adolescents.