Socio-environmental Factors as Determinants of Emotional Well-being of Adolescents in Foster Homes in South-Western Nigeria

Abstract

Aims: The study explored the socio-environmental factors as determinants of the emotional well-being of adolescents in foster homes in southwestern Nigeria. Study Design: A descriptive survey research of ex-post-facto type was employed. Place and Duration of Study: Foster homes in six states in southwestern Nigeria.  Methodology: multi-stage sampling was used in selecting 555 respondents for this study and the data collection was done using a semi-structured questionnaire and data analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Results: The study revealed that peer influence, academic performance and attitude of the foster family were significant to emotional wellbeing. All the components of social factors correlated with the emotional well-being of the fostered adolescents show that appropriate schooling and educational services can strengthen them and are more likely to view their schools as a supportive and safe haven. Therefore, peers, the foster family and the foster adolescents’ exposure to academics either directly or indirectly affects their emotional well-being. It also showed that the majority (54.1%) accepted that they can count on their carers to help them when the need arises. It is also revealed that the foster family attitude is an adolescent’s source of emotional support and their psychological well-being which may increase self-esteem in the fostered adolescents. This study revealed that 44.3% of the respondents confirmed that they always get along well with their carers. Conclusion: Adolescents in foster care face multiple threats to their healthy development, including poor physical health, attachment disorders, compromised brain functioning, inadequate and emotional skills