Marital Instability, Single Parenthood and GirlChild Academic Performance in Akure South Local Government Area, Ondo State

The study examined the upshots of marital instability and single parenthood on the academic performance of girl-child in Akure South Local Government Area of Ondo State Nigeria. The descriptive research design was adopted for the study. Findings revealed that low or lack of income is one of the major challenges faced by single parents. Furthermore, the study revealed that single parents lack partners that they can share both the monetary and child care responsibilities. The study concluded that most parents are encountered with various hindrances such as emotional, social, financial, and economic problems which results in behaviours which are unacceptable in the society by their children such as cultism, alcohol and drug addiction. Alcoholism and drug abuse can lead to serious health challenges. A girl-child who abuses alcohol and drugs is more likely to struggle with addiction later in life likewise have permanent and brain damage. It is therefore recommended that couples with marital related issues should seek help from social workers for guidance. Marriage and family life counsellors should organize education seminars on the influence of marital instability and single parenthood on children especially the girl-child on educational performance. There is a need for vital consideration for policymakers, government and other stakeholders to promote the academic performance of children who are products of broken homes.