INFLUENCE OF PARENTAL-CHILD RELATIONSHIP ON ADOLESCENTS’ MORAL DEVELOPMENT IN AKOKO SOUTH- WEST LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF ONDO STAT

The moral development of adolescents in Nigeria is challenged by the complex influence of parent-child relationships, where negative dynamics can hinder the internalization of moral standards and contribute to social issues. This study, therefore, examined the influence of the parent-child relationship on adolescents’ moral development in Akoko South-West Local Government Area of Ondo State. The investigation was guided by three research questions and two hypotheses to explore the quality of these relationships and their impact on moral behaviour. A descriptive survey research design was employed for the study, involving 200 in-school adolescents randomly selected from four secondary schools in the specified local government area. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire assessing demographics, the quality of the parent-child relationship, and the level of moral development. The collected data were analyzed using descriptive statistics (mean scores) and inferential statistics (independent t-tests) at a 0.05 level of significance. Findings revealed a generally positive quality of parent-child relationships and a moderately positive level of moral development among adolescents. The first hypothesis was rejected, as the parent-child relationship was found to have a significant influence on adolescents’ moral development (t(198) = 3.34, p < 0.05). Similarly, the second hypothesis was supported, indicating that gender significantly influences the quality of the parent-child relationship, with females reporting stronger bonds than their male counterparts (t(198) = 2.461, p = .015). The study concluded that a supportive parent-child relationship is a critical determinant of adolescents' moral development and that gender differences significantly shape these relational dynamics. Based on these findings, it is recommended that parents strengthen communication with their children. Furthermore, schools and community leaders should implement parental engagement programmes and workshops to sensitize families on the importance of supportive parenting in fostering positive moral upbringing.