A SOCIOLOGICAL STUDY OF THE FACTORS CONTRIBUTING TO BROKEN HOMES IN KABO LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, KANO STATE

ABSTRACT This sociological study examines the factors contributing to broken homes in Kabo Local Government Area, Kano State, Nigeria. The research had five key objectives: (1) to identify the sociological factors contributing to broken homes, (2) to examine the influence of gender roles on family stability, (3) to examine the influence of marital expectations on family cohesion, (4) to evaluate the social consequences of broken homes, and (5) to propose mitigation strategies. Employing a mixed-methods approach, the study collected data from 90 respondents including married, divorced, and widowed individuals, as well as community leaders and social workers. Findings revealed poverty as the predominant factor (45.6%), followed by domestic violence (15.6%), poor communication (8.9%), and cultural/religious differences (7.8%). Gender role analysis showed 80% prevalence of traditional roles, with 61.1% reporting these contribute to marital conflict. Marital expectations emerged as significant, with 77.8% citing unmet expectations as destabilizing, particularly financial (48.9%) and emotional (26.7%) expectations. The study documented severe consequences for children from broken homes, including behavioral issues (50%), poor academic performance (27.8%), and emotional trauma (11.1%). Proposed interventions prioritized counseling services (40%), financial support (21.1%), gender equality promotion (16.7%), and premarital counseling (15.6%). These findings underscore the urgent need for comprehensive interventions addressing economic, social, and cultural dimensions of family instability. The study provides empirical evidence to guide policymakers, social workers, and community leaders in developing targeted programs to strengthen family structures in Kabo LGA.