Evaluation of Peer Relationship and Social Adaptation of School-Aged Children in Enugu North Local Government

Abstract

This study evaluated the peer relationship and social adaptation of school-aged children in Enugu North Local Government Area (LGA), Enugu State. A cross- sectional survey design was employed in a population of 60,780 (29, 968 males and 30, 812 females) schoolchildren in the LGA. Multi-stage sampling method was employed in the selection of 602 school-aged children from 58 schools who formed the sample for the study. Three research questions guided the study. The reliability of the instrument was ascertained using Cronbach’s alpha reliability index and scores of 0.50 and 0.70 for the peer relationship questionnaire for children, and the social adaptation scale respectively were obtained. Statistical Product for Service Solution (IBM-SPSS) software version 23, was used. Descriptive statistics (frequencies, percentages, mean and standard deviation) and inferential statistics (Spearman Rank Order correlation) were conducted, and presented in the form of tables. Most (62.6%) of the respondents showed moderate social adaptation mostly when they are with their families (4.53±2.31). The majority (76.6%) had low peer relationships. A significant positive relationship was found between peer relationships and social adaptation. Governmental and non-governmental organizations should therefore organize programs that will facilitate peer relationships and social adaptation among school-aged children and also educate teachers and parents to be of great help to the children.