Children in a world of changing maternal occupational patterns: the Nigerian experience

Abstract

Socialization processes in Nigeria as far as women's occupational patterns are concerned were largely restricted to the home, however, recently there has been a gradual shift. More women are attracted to traditional and non-traditional occupations usually offering a better package of income, conditions of service, etc. This paper investigates the relationships between maternal employment status (MES) and Nigerian children's perceived feeling of maternal warmth in three main ethnic groups in Nigeria (Hausa, Igbo and Yoruba) and its attendant effect on their personality and behavioural dispositions. Nine hundred children with ages ranging between 12 and 14 years constituted the randomly selected sample. T-test analysis results revealed a significant relationship between MES and maternal warmth. A significant relationship was also observed between MES and the personality/behavioural dispositions of Nigerian children. The implications of these findings are discussed. Recommendations are made for reducing emotional and psychological risks while improving available gains.