Psycho-Social Variables and Social Adjustment of Orphans in Akwa Ibom State,Nigeria: Implications to Guidance and Counselling

Abstract

The main purpose of the study is to determine the influence of psycho-social variables on the
social adjustment of orphans in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The descriptive survey design was
used for this study. The population comprised 440 children from 6 years and above in all the
five-public orphanage in Akwa Ibom State. A sample of 210 orphans was determined
statistically using Taro Yamen Formula and was selected for the study using stratified random
sampling technique. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire titled “’ PsychoSocial Variables and Social Adjustment of Orphans Questionnaires” (PSVSAOQ). The
instrument was face validated by three experts and it yielded the reliability coefficient of .83
with Cronbach Alpha statistics. Mean and standard deviation scores were used to answer
research questions while related t-test statistic was used in testing the hypotheses. Findings of
the study showed that self-awareness and social support highly influence social adjustment of
orphans in Akwa Ibom State. Furthermore, a significant influence of self-awareness and social
support on social adjustment was observed. The study concluded that psycho-social variables
influence the social adjustment of orphans in Akwa Ibom State. Based on the findings of the
study it was recommended among others that State government should organize capacity
building programmes in form of training, workshops, conferences and seminars for managers
and caregivers in orphanages to equip them with skills in socialization, environmental
management, attitudinal development, resource management, human relations among others
as this will empower managers and caregivers in orphanages to create social environment for
positive social adjustment among orphans.