Journal For Family & Society Research

Artificial Intelligence and Early Childhood Development (ages 0-5): Exploring Benefits, Risks and Ethical Consequences

Omaliko J.C. — 2026-07-10

It is increasingly evident that Artificial intelligence (AI) has permeated contemporary
society and fundamentally transformed human activities globally. In spite of evidence
on the rapid benefits of AI in different sectors in society like health, industry, education
and so on, there is still limited research on the impact of AI on early childhood
development (ages 0-5). Early childhood is often a critical period when it comes to the
cognitive, emotional and behavioral growth of an individual. Therefore,
understanding how AI-integrated environments reshape these formative years is
essential. The paper utilizes a narrative review of journal articles, relevant academic
literature, policy briefs, books and internet sources. Findings indicate that while
artificial intelligence offers many benefits for children at their early development such
as personalized adaptive learning, interactive play, enhanced creativity, early
detection and special education, problem solving and acquisition of social skills, it also
poses significant risks. However, over-dependence on AI may hinder natural social
interactions, and unrestricted use of certain AI tools can expose children to digital
safety threats. This paper concludes by recommending a balanced approach that
integrates technology use with conventional learning. It further emphasises the vital
role of parental and educator guidance on the use of AI technologies by children as
one of the important ways to mitigate the negative impacts of AI on the developing
child, which extends to the family and society.

Prevalence and Knowledge of Postpartum Depression among Nursing Mothers (20-49 Years) in Benue State, Nigeria

Aondoakaa Bernadette Nguamo — 2026-07-10

The study investigated the prevalence and knowledge of postpartum depression
(PPD) among nursing mothers in Benue State, Nigeria, using a cross-sectional research
design. A multi-stage sampling technique was employed to select 2080 nursing
mothers with infants aged 0-12 months attending postnatal care services at the 916
primary health care centres in Benue State. Data on respondents' social demographic
characteristics and knowledge of PPD were collected using a content-validated,
structured questionnaire and the Edinburgh Postpartum Depression Scale (EPDS). The
reliability of the questionnaire was determined using a Cronbach’s alpha (0.7414) after
a pilot study at the Primary Healthcare Centre, Lafia East, Nasarawa State. Data
collected were analysed using the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS)
version 20.0 and presented as frequencies, percentages, mean, and chi-square values.
The study found a 32.53% prevalence of PPD among the nursing mothers and a low
level of knowledge of PPD. The knowledge of PPD was significantly (p<0.001)
associated with age (X² = 51.32), marital status (X² = 18.19), and educational
qualification (X² = 38.08). Severity of PPD was significantly (p < 0.001) associated with
educational qualification (X² = 15.52), number of children (X² = 19.31) and type of
residence (X2 = 10.54). The study concluded that PPD is prevalent in the study area,
though many mothers are unaware of the condition, which is shaped by various socio-
demographic influences. It was recommended that knowledge should be tailored
based on socio-demographic factors to reduce PPD. Also, comprehensive maternal
mental health programmes should be integrated into routine prenatal and postnatal
care to include psycho-education on the causes, symptoms, and effects of depression.

Stress Experiences of Married Muslim Women Bankers in Tamale Metropolis, Ghana

Zakaria Shanunu — 2026-07-10

Work and family are the two most important aspects in most married Muslim
women’s lives. Balancing work and family roles have become a key personal and
family issue for many societies. There are many facets in the lives of married Muslim
women bankers that are subject to stress. The purpose of this study is to assess the
stress experienced by married Muslim women bankers during work in the Tamale
Metropolis of Northern Region, Ghana. The sample consists of 63 married Muslim
women out of 107 women working in 21 commercial banks in the study area. This
study employed a mixed-method approach integrating both qualitative and
quantitative methods to offer a more thorough comprehension of the subject matter. In-
depth interviews, questionnaires, and focus groups were employed to gather the data.
Data were sorted into thematic areas for data analysis. The results from the data
indicated five major stress areas: psychosocial, physical, psycho-spiritual,
psychological, and technological stress. The study revealed that married Muslim
women bankers in Tamale metropolis face multi-layered stressors and challenges in
the workplace, which might play a major role in shaping their behaviour and well-
being. Public healthcare professionals should take into consideration the peculiarities
of Muslim women while supporting the well-being of working women and their
families.

Social Disconnection and Online Immersion: A Correlational Study of Internet Gaming Disorder and Loneliness among Adolescents in Enugu Metropolis

Umennuihe C.L — 2026-07-10

In an era where artificial intelligence-driven algorithms are designed to maximise
user engagement, the boundary between digital recreation and problematic use
has become increasingly blurred. As online games adapt to users’ emotions and
behaviours, many adolescents are forming social connections in virtual
environments rather than through face-to-face interactions. This study examined
the relationship between loneliness and Internet Gaming Disorder (IGD) among
secondary school adolescents in Enugu Metropolis. Guided by four objectives, the
study adopted a descriptive correlational survey design. Using Taro Yamane’s
formula, a sample of 404 respondents was drawn from a population of 16,500
through a multistage sampling procedure. Data were collected using a structured,
self-administered questionnaire comprising the UCLA Loneliness Scale (Version
3), the Internet Gaming Disorder Scale–Short Form (IGDS9-SF), and items
assessing socio-demographic characteristics and coping strategies. Data were
analysed using frequencies, percentages, means, standard deviations, Chi-square
and Pearson tests. Results showed that 68.1% of respondents experienced
moderate to high loneliness, while 56.9% exhibited symptoms consistent with
IGD. Pearson correlation revealed a strong, statistically significant positive
relationship between loneliness and IGD severity (r = 0.62, p = .020). Categorically,
adolescents with high loneliness were nearly five times more likely to report
moderate to severe IGD (46.4%) than those with low loneliness (9.6%) (p = 0.001).
Although many adolescents recognised the value of social support and alternative
activities, structured coping strategies were seldom used. The study concludes
that loneliness is a significant risk factor for IGD and recommends collaborative
efforts by schools and parents to regulate gaming time and promote offline
activities.

Teachers’ Perception of the Use of AI-Powered Instructional Materials for Teaching Home Economics in Primary Schools in Nsukka Local Government Are

Kalu E. P. — 2026-07-10

This study investigated teachers’ perceptions of the use of AI-powered instructional
materials for teaching Home Economics in primary schools in Nsukka Local
Government Area. Specifically, the study assessed the availability of AI tools, utilisation
in enhancing engagement and skill acquisition, factors affecting effective use, and
strategies for improvement. The study adopted a survey design and was carried out in
Nsukka Local Government Area, involving all 98 Home Economics teachers in
government-owned primary schools. Data were collected using a structured
questionnaire titled the Teachers’ AI Perception Questionnaire (T-AI-P), which three
experts validated. The collected data were analysed using frequency, percentage, mean,
and standard deviation to answer the research questions. Frequency and percentage
were used to analyse research question two, while mean and standard deviation were
used to analyse research questions one, three and four. The findings revealed a growing
availability and utilisation of AI tools among participants (x̄ = 2.02), accompanied by a
relatively strong level of support from school management (x̄ = 2.56). Although actual
use remained limited, teachers generally perceived AI-powered instructional tools as
beneficial for teaching and learning in Home Economics. The major constraints to the
effective utilisation of AI tools include Inadequate training (x̄=3.51) and poor internet
connectivity (x̄=3.47), among others. Strategies such as curriculum planning integration
(x̄=3.48), regular training (x̄=3.41), and funding allocation (x̄=3.36) were strongly
believed to improve AI-supported teaching. The study concludes that AI-powered
instructional materials have significant potential to enhance learning outcomes in
Home Economics Education. However, their effectiveness is dependent on adequate
infrastructure, teacher competence, and policy support. Recommendations include
strengthening training, infrastructure, curriculum integration, and administrative
support to optimise AI utilisation.

Perception of Domestic Violence Among Married Adults in Ekiti State, Nigeria

Bolanle Oriola — 2026-07-10

Domestic violence among married adults is widespread, with women mostly
documented as victims. However, little is known regarding the perspectives of married
adults with respect to domestic violence, particularly in patriarchal societies such as
Nigeria. This study, therefore, investigates married adults’ perspectives on domestic
violence against women in Southwest Nigeria. Underpinned by the Social Learning and
Feminist theories, the study adopted a quantitative research design. The study sample
was 216 married adults in Ekiti State, Nigeria. Data were collected via a questionnaire
tagged ‘Perception of Domestic Violence Questionnaire (M-CPDVQ)’ and analysed
using both descriptive and inferential statistics on SPSS version 26. Findings reveal that
both spouses (Mean = 4.03) were reported as the major perpetrators of domestic abuse,
while with respect to perceived causes of domestic violence, lack of love (Mean=4.35),
infidelity (Mean = 4.35), irresponsible habits of a spouse (Mean = 4.35), and nagging
attitudes (Mean = 4.20). The most perceived effects of domestic violence, according to
the respondents with Mean ≥ 4.00, include threat to life and family stability, physical
harm, emotional trauma, psychological trauma, marital breakdown, and children’s
exposure to societal violence. The solutions to domestic violence as perceived by
respondents were counselling and psychological services, and family support services
from governmental and non-governmental organisations. Regarding the tested
hypothesis on gender difference in the perception that husbands are the most common
perpetrators of domestic violence more than their wives, the result was not significant
(χ²(1) = 1.209, p = 0.0271). A significant difference was found in the perception of males
and females about the causes of domestic violence, with females reporting that inherited
violent habits (U = 4008.00, Z = -4.229, p = .000) and poverty (U = 4614.00, Z = -2.725, p
= .006) are the major causes. The study recommends that the teaching of safe relationship
skills early reduces violence risk by promoting healthy communication and boundaries,
providing economic supports, such as job training for women, lessening dependency,
and empowering victims, among others.

Intolerance of Uncertainty and Eco-anxiety: a Systematic Literature Review (2001-2005)

Nwankwo O. — 2026-07-10

The declining climate conditions have introduced various forms of uncertainty in human
society, leading to increased risks of environment-related anxiety known as eco-anxiety.
This review aims to examine the relationship between intolerance of uncertainty (IU)
and eco-anxiety. In line with the PRISMA 2020 guidelines, a search was conducted on 4
databases: Google Scholar, PubMed, Arxiv and Scispace for empirical research
published between 2021 and 2025. The search yielded 179 unique records, which were
screened by their abstracts. The review cut across different regions and population
groups and selected seven primary empirical studies, which met the inclusion criteria.
The evidence from these studies demonstrates a positive association between IU and eco-
anxiety, with Positive IU playing an important role, as it is characterised by proactive
information seeking, whereas inhibitory IU leads to paralysis and appears more
peripheral. Intolerance of Uncertainty also plays a mediating role in the relationship
between eco-anxiety and mental wellbeing. Using the ROBINS-1 assessment to assess
the risk of bias, the result indicated a moderate overall bias across all included studies,
particularly due to the cross-sectional nature of the data, which limits causal inference.
Limited geographical diversity, absence of longitudinal designs and reliance on
convenience samples were identified as significant gaps in the literature. Future research
should prioritise prospective studies to establish temporal precedence and examine
intervention targets for reducing maladaptive climate-related distress.

Nutrient Composition and Sensory Properties of Cake Fortified with Watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) Rind Flour

Ukala C.U. — 2026-07-10

The study determined the nutrient composition and sensory properties of cakes fortified
with watermelon (Citrullus lanatus) rind flour. A quasi-experimental research design
guided by four specific objectives was adopted. Cake samples were produced using
wheat flour and watermelon rind flour blends formulated as K0 (100:0), K1 (80:20), K2
(70:30), and K3 (60:40). Sensory evaluation of the product was conducted first using a
nine-point hedonic scale with 30 panelists to determine the most acceptable blend for
subsequent nutritional evaluation. The most acceptable composite flour blend was
analysed alongside the control sample for the nutrient content, including proximate,
vitamin (provitamin A, B6, and C), and mineral (iron, zinc, and calcium) contents using
standard methods. Data were analysed using mean, standard deviation, and
paired-samples t-test in IBM SPSS version 23.0 at a significance level of p < 0.05. Results
showed that for the proximate analysis, protein content increased from 4.925% in the
control sample (K0; cake made with 100% wheat flour) to 5.280% in the fortified sample
(K2; sample with 70:30), while the moisture content decreased from 21.580% in K0 to
19.425% in K2. Similarly, ash content increased markedly from 0.090% in K0 to 1.855% in
K2, whereas crude fat content decreased from 12.635% in the control to 1.390% in the
fortified sample. Although carbohydrate content remained relatively unchanged,
increasing slightly from 59.320% in K0 to 59.475% in K2, crude fibre content increased
appreciably from 1.395% in the control sample to 2.585% in the fortified sample. The
mineral analysis showed that K0 had higher levels of zinc (0.144±0.000), calcium
(175.000±3.932), and iron (5.859±1.081) than K2 (zinc [0.325±0.050], calcium
[152.780±3.932], and iron [5.349±0.360]). The vitamin results also showed that provitamin
A (1.115±0.021), vitamin B6 (0.450±0.070), and vitamin C (0.800±0.141) were higher in the
fortified sample. This study concludes that fortifying cake products with watermelon rind
flour enhances their proximate composition, vitamins, and mineral content and,
therefore, recommends its use in pastry production, particularly cakes, to improve their
nutritional quality.

Family Functioning and Resilience among Children with Sensory Disabilities in Enugu State: Moderated Mediation of Achievement Motivation in Special Interests across Perceived Social Acceptance Levels

Nwauzoije E. J. — 2026-07-10

The family system influences the development of individuals, including adaptive
functioning such as resilience. Resilience is crucial for children with sensory disabilities
to thrive amidst daily challenges. It is pertinent to understand the factors that promote
resilience. This study, therefore, examined the role of achievement motivation in special
interests as a mediating mechanism linking family functioning to resilience, while
examining perceived social acceptance as a moderator of direct relationship. A cross-
section of 120 children with sensory disabilities (blindness or deafness) aged 6 to 12
years, selected through purposive sampling, participated in the study. Data was
obtained using standardized questionnaires, and Hayes’s PROCESS macro, version 5.0
model 5, was used in data analyses. The results showed that more functional family
systems are associated with higher achievement motivation (β FF-AM=1.321), which,
in turn, significantly mediates the effect on resilience ((β AM-R=0.262). High levels of
social acceptance moderated the direct effect of family functioning on resilience
(β simple = 1.3322, p < 0.001; 95 % CI [0.4520, 2.2123]). In conclusion, family functioning
enhances resilience through achievement motivation, and the direct effect of family
functioning on resilience is contingent on social acceptance. Interventions for children
with sensory disabilities to enhance resilience should focus on improving family
functioning.

Economic Effects of Artificial Intelligence (AI)-Driven Mechanization on Farm Labour in Nigeria’s Agricultural Sector: A Conceptual Review

O. B Nwokah — 2026-07-15

The review brings to light the economic effects of AI-driven mechanization on farm labour in Nigeria’s agricultural sector. The review is organized as an overview of AI- driven mechanization in the Nigerian agricultural sector, key AI mechanization technologies in Nigeria and their applications, economic effects of AI on farm labour and challenges to the use of AI-driven mechanization in the Nigerian agricultural sector. Artificial Intelligence (AI) is poised to transform farming by reducing labour needs while increasing food production. As AI automation progresses, it is expected to gradually replace human labour, particularly on farms, where robots and autonomous machines will manage operations and utilize predictive analytics for decision-making. The adoption of new technology and mechanization in agriculture can significantly enhance food production. However, it warns that the implementation of AI might lead to challenges such as unemployment among unskilled labourers. Additionally, inadequate connectivity in rural areas could hinder AI effectiveness. Recommendations include improving connectivity and infrastructure, training extension personnel on AI, and making agriculture more appealing to youth, especially graduates.