Journal For Family & Society Research

Physico-Social Support Needs for Inclusion in an Instructional Package for Family Management of Mild Mentally Challenged Persons in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria

Olumuyiwa, B.O, Usoroh, C.I. — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The main purpose of this study was to determine the physico-social support needs for inclusion in instructional package for family management of mild mentally challenged persons in Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Two specific purposes guided the study. The study adopted a descriptive survey design. The target population of the study was 81 experts (24 psychiatric doctors, 35 psychiatric nurses, 6 psychologists, 2
family sociologists and 14 mild mentally challenged instructors), from which the
sample size of 63 experts was determined using a research advisor table and selected using a multistage sampling procedure. A structured questionnaire titled Physico-social Support Needs for Family Management of Mild Mentally Challenged Persons Questionnaire (PSNFMMMCPQ) was used for data collection. The instrument was face-validated by five experts and had a reliability coefficient of 0.91 using Cronbach Alpha statistics. Mean and standard deviation were used to answer the research questions. Findings revealed that experts approved the inclusion of all the specific physical support (3.03±0.68) and social support (3.12±0.70) tasks in the physico-social support instructional package for family management of mild mentally challenged persons. The study concluded that a functional instructional package must have specific support tasks in physical (such as brushing teeth daily) and social (such as regular interaction with peers) domains tailored to meet the needs of MMCPs. Based on the findings, it was recommended that instructional package developers should ensure that specific tasks of physical and social support needs are included in the
instructional package for family management of mild mentally challenged people.

Special Examination Centres: Use, Motivations, and Perceived Effects on Later Academic Performance among Undergraduate Students of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka

Moses, G.I., Omaliko, J.C., Onwuama, O.P — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study investigated the use, motivations and perceived effects of special examination centre on later academic performance among undergraduate students at the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. The study was guided by four research objectives, and a cross-sectional research design was adopted. A simple random sampling method by balloting and availability sampling techniques were used to select 204 respondents. Data were analyzed using SPSS. Findings revealed that the majority (87%) of the students have utilized special examination centers, and this is evidence that the practice was widespread within the educational sector. It was also found that the primary motivation for students’ use of special examination centres was to pass with minimal effort (51.0%). Others include lack of preparation (26.5%) and fear of failing regular exams (19.0%). Moreover, the impact on the later academic performance of undergraduate students was largely negative, with 51.0%
stating that reliance on these centres led to a decline in performance over time.
Based on the findings, the study recommended the implementation of awareness campaigns on the long-term consequences of special examination centres and examination malpractice, encouraging a culture of academic integrity, stricter monitoring of examination centres, and the reinforcement of academic support
programs to help students prepare adequately for examinations. Additionally,
universities are encouraged to introduce stricter penalties for students involved in
such practices and promote integrity-driven assessment methods, such as
continuous assessments and practical-based evaluations, to reduce overreliance on final examinations.

Socio-economic Factors associated with Gender Gaps in politics in the Southern Senatorial District of Taraba State

Ishaya Joshua — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The domination of women by men in political positions and offices undermines
the tenets of democracy by posing a serious threat to the assertion and belief of inclusivity of all genders. This paper aims to examine factors associated with the gender gap in politics in the Southern Senatorial district of Taraba state. The paper utilized a sequential mixed-method, descriptive cross-sectional survey research design. The sample size was 384 out of 660,220 men and women of voting age. The study respondents were made up of electoral officers, party officials, and party members. A validated structured questionnaire and key informant interview (KII) were used for data collection. Results were analyzed using descriptive statistics of mean and standard deviation, and thematic analysis of KII, and the mean score was set at 2.50. The study's findings revealed that socio-cultural factors, religion mean value (4.41), culture, customs, norms, and traditions (4.39), patriarchal party structure (3.75), electoral violence and threat (3.83), and lack of women's interests (4.41) are responsible for gender gaps in politics. The researcher recommends that the government should make a law that certain elective positions be reserved exclusively for women at all levels, be it federal, state, and local government areas.

Chemical Composition of Cassava Starch Flour and Sensory Evaluation of Soup Made with the Flour

Onyeke, N.G., AbdulMuminu, N.Q., Igwe, O.S., Ugwu, O.E. — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Although cassava (and its derivatives) is widely recognized as a global staple, its
chemical characteristics and culinary performance can vary significantly, affecting both its nutritional value and its acceptance as an ingredient in meal preparation. This study evaluated the chemical composition of cassava starch flour derived from Manihot esculenta and assessed its sensory performance as a thickening agent in Nigerian Oha soup. The study design was quasi-experimental, and standard methods were used for chemical analysis. Data were analysed in IBM SPSS, version 23.0, using means and standard deviations. Proximate analysis revealed that cassava starch flour contained lower total carbohydrates (70.13%), but higher moisture (12.78%), crude fat (3.10%), crude protein (8.65%), ash (2.09%), and crude fiber (3.25%) when compared to the conventional thickener, cocoyam flour. Cassava starch flour demonstrated higher levels of vitamin B1 (0.15mg/100g), B2 (11.45mg/100g), B9 (0.50μg/100g), and E (15.75mg/100g) compared to cocoyam flour. Mineral analysis revealed a higher iron content (6.62mg/100g) in cassava starch flour compared to cocoyam flour. Although
within stipulated standards, cassava starch flour contained higher levels of anti-nutrients such as, tannins (128.25 ± 0.21 mg) and cyanogenic glycosides (5.35 ± 0.07 mg), but lower amounts of phytates (159.15 ± 0.21 mg). The sensory evaluation indicated that soup thickened with cassava starch flour received higher scores for taste, colour, flavour, texture, and general acceptability, comparable to soups prepared with cocoyam flour (control). This study concludes that cassava starch flour contains lower carbohydrates but has higher vitamins and iron content and is more generally
acceptable than cocoyam flour. The high content of anti-nutrients in the cassava starch flour suggests the need to optimize processing methods to reduce anti-nutritional components while maintaining their functional and sensory properties.

Video Game Use and Academic Performance among Primary School Children in Enugu North LGA: Exploring Game Duration, Preferences, Parental Perceptions, and Mediation Strategies

Okpanachi, N.O, Okoli, D.N, Umennuihe, A.E. — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Video game use among children has become a prominent aspect of contemporary childhood, raising questions about its influence on academic performance. This study examined the relationship between video game use and children's academic performance in Enugu North LGA, Enugu State. It also assessed video game preferences, parental perception of video games, and mediation strategies. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire from 380 randomly selected primary school children aged
seven and above. Data were analysed using SPSS version 23.0. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were applied at a 0.05 significance level, and a decision benchmark of 2.5 was used to interpret mean scores. Findings show that children mostly played puzzle and adventure games, and over 50% played video games for over 5 hours daily. Despite this, 53.2% of children showed high academic performance. Parental perception was generally sceptical, though some acknowledged the
educational potential of video games. Strategies adopted by parents included setting time limits, imposing rules, and providing study-focused environments. The results revealed no significant relationship between game duration and academic performance (p > 0.05). However, findings suggest that when properly guided and used in moderation, video games can positively impact learning. It was therefore recommended that balancing screen time with academics, promoting educational
games, and encouraging parental engagement will help to harness the potential of video games in improving children's cognitive and academic abilities.

Sensory and Nutrient Evaluation of Cupcakes Made with Different Ratios of Date Fruit Paste and Refined Sugar

Abraham D.D., Odo, B.L, Aguenu, J.U, Oleka, P.C, Ezike, B.O, Onah V. K — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study evaluated the sensory attributes and nutrient composition of cupcakes made with different ratios of date fruit paste as a sugar substitute. Five samples were formulated with varying ratios of refined sugar to date fruit paste: Sample A (0:100), B (70:30), C (50:50), D (30:70), and control sample E (100:0). Sensory evaluation by 30 trained panelists used a nine-point hedonic scale to assess colour, texture, flavour, and overall acceptability. Data were analysed using a one-way Analysis of Variance ANOVA using an IBM SPSS (version 24.0) and Duncan’s test for sensory evaluation,
while T-test was used for nutrient analysis comparing the nutrient content of the
most accepted cupcake sample and the control sample. Results indicated that
Sample D (30% sugar: 70% date paste) achieved the highest consumer preference, balancing taste and texture without compromising quality. Nutrient analysis showed that Sample D had higher protein (8.60%) dietary fibre (0.20%), ash (6.75%), calcium (168.00 mg), iron (1.10 mg), vitamin A (181.00), vitamin C (29.24 mg) and vitamin E (30.64 mg) compared to control Sample E (7.47% protein, 0.10% dietary fiber, 5.00% ash, 104.50 mg calcium, 0.27 mg iron, 101. vitamin A, 14.62 mg vitamin C, and 22.05 mg vitamin E). These findings suggest that date fruit paste is a viable alternative to refined sugar in baking, contributing to healthier food options and potential dietary interventions for managing sugar intake

Perceptions about Indecent Dressing and Female Sexual Harassment among Students of Federal University of Agriculture Abeokuta

Sowemimo B. O, Sanu J. O, Adedeji D. O. — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

This study examined university students’ perceptions of indecent dressing and its
perceived link to female sexual harassment. It explored students' knowledge of indecent dressing, its possible causes, and its perceived influence on sexual harassment. A descriptive survey design was used, with data collected through questionnaires administered to 350 students selected from a population of 2,822 through multi-stage sampling. Data were analyzed using descriptive and inferential statistics. Findings revealed a high level (x̄ = 1.80) of knowledge of indecent dressing, with many respondents associating it with clothing that exposes private body parts
(x̄ = 1.94; 1.89). Peer pressure (x̄ = 3.30), internet exposure (x̄ = 3.16), and foreign
cultural influence (x̄ = 3.09) emerged as the most commonly identified causes.
Respondents generally agreed (x̄ = 3.18) that indecent dressing could contribute to
female sexual harassment by provoking unwanted attention. T-test results revealed significant gender differences in perception. Males rated poor parenting (t = 1.17) and foreign influence (t = 1.30) as stronger causes of indecent dressing and were more likely to view provocative clothing as linked to sexual immorality and advances (t = 3.16). However, no significant gender differences were found in views regarding sexual temptation, rape provocation, or lust, indicating a convergence of beliefs between male and female respondents. The study concludes that while knowledge about indecent dressing is high, its persistence reflects broader socio-cultural influences. Addressing the issue requires more than dress codes; it calls for value-based education, gender-sensitive discourse, and institutional policies that promote
respect, accountability, and safety for all students.

Proximate Composition and Sensory Evaluation of Tofu Products Made from Soybean (Glycine max) and Lime (Citrus aurantifolia) as Coagulant

Lilly, G., Tew, B. C — Thu, 26 Feb 2026 00:00:00 +0000

The study assessed the proximate and sensory evaluation of tofu products made
from soybeans (Glycine max) with lime (Citrus aurantifolia) as a coagulant. The
study aimed to determine the proximate composition (moisture, protein, carbohydrate, fat, crude fibre, and ash) and the sensory attributes of the products (colour, flavour, taste, texture/viscosity, and degree of acceptability). Quasi-experimental design was employed for the study. Chemical analysis was conducted to determine the proximate composition, while sensory evaluation was performed using a 9-point hedonic scale to assess the degree of acceptability of various tofu products. The samples were tofu pie, tofu roll, tofu orange drink, and tofu pineapple drink. Data obtained from proximate and sensory evaluations were analyzed statistically using the mean, standard deviation, and t-test. Results obtained on the proximate composition showed that the snacks had a low moisture content (tofu pie: 37.71%, tofu roll: 23.47%). There was high protein content in tofu pie (14.60%), high carbohydrate content in tofu roll (43.55%), and high fat content
in tofu pie (21.18%) and tofu roll (21.20%). Carbohydrate was higher in tofu orange
drink (9.06%) compared to tofu pineapple drink (8.41%). The results of the sensory
evaluation showed that both the tofu pie and tofu roll were most generally accepted, with scores of 8.40 ± 0.52 and 8.40 ± 0.52, respectively. The tofu orange
drink was the most generally accepted of the two drinks. Based on the findings, it
was concluded that pastries and drinks made from tofu are nutritionally suitable
for individuals who desire a healthy lifestyle. It was recommended that food
manufacturers adopt lime as a coagulant in tofu production, nutritionists and
health personnel promote its wider use, and consumers consider tofu as a viable
alternative to beef in their culinary choices.

Mental Health Challenges and Coping Mechanisms among Undergraduates of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka

Obi, R. N., Okechukwu, F.O., Ugwu, M. O. — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Mental health is a crucial factor in overall well-being, affecting cognitive function,
emotional stability, and social interactions. Globally, disorders like depression, anxiety, and substance abuse are rising, significantly impacting quality of life and productivity. University students, particularly in Nigeria, face stressors such as academic pressure, financial strain, and social adaptation, which contribute to mental health challenges. This study investigates mental health challenges and coping mechanisms among undergraduates of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. It
assesses students’ mental health status, identifies contributing factors, and evaluates coping strategies for mental health challenges among undergraduates of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka. A cross-sectional survey design was used, with data collected from 367 students across three faculties. A structured questionnaire and two adapted questionnaires were employed for data collection. Data analysis was conducted using Statistical Products for Service Solution (SPSS, version 23.0). The findings of the study revealed moderate rates of anxiety (39.2%), depression (61%), panic disorder (58.9%), and social anxiety disorder (60.2%), with academic pressure
(60.2%), family issues (51.8%), poor time management (54.5%), and stress (69.5%)
exacerbating these problems. Eating disorders were relatively less prevalent among respondents than other conditions, as 66.2% reported low levels of the disorder. Strategies the respondents use to cope with mental health challenges include talking to friends and family (68.9%), meditation and mindfulness (62.4%), and engaging in
hobbies (65.9%). The study underscores the need for mental health programs and
support services to enhance student mental well-being.

Artificial Intelligence in Child and Adolescent Mental Health: Prevention, Diagnosis, and Treatment in Hybrid Human–AI Care Models

Nnubia U.I, Nwauzoije E.J — Tue, 13 Jan 2026 00:00:00 +0000

Mental health disorders among children and adolescents have become increasingly common and burdensome, with conditions such as anxiety, depression, suicidality, and trauma-related disorders contributing significantly to disability and death. While
timely identification and intervention are vital, progress is often limited by the
scarcity of trained providers, ongoing stigma, and dependence on subjective
evaluation methods. Against this backdrop, artificial intelligence (AI) is being explored to improve mental healthcare through enhanced early detection, monitoring, individualized interventions, and clinical decision support. This narrative review synthesizes research and systematic reviews from 2015 to 2025, sourced from Google Scholar, Web of Science, PubMed Central, PsycINFO, Science Direct, and EBSCO. Articles included focused on AI applications in children and adolescents’ mental health, highlighting advances in machine learning, natural language processing, multimodal data integration, and digital cognitive-behavioral therapy. Evidence suggests that AI can analyze behavioral, physiological, and linguistic data to predict mental health risks, detect emerging symptoms, and deliver personalized interventions within a hybrid human–AI care model, where AI complements clinician expertise to improve access, engagement, and treatment outcomes. However, challenges persist, including algorithmic bias, limited model interpretability, data quality, privacy concerns, and integration into clinical workflows. Ethical and practical governance are essential to ensure that AI supports, rather than replaces, human-centered care. Future priorities include expanding research on underrepresented populations and conditions, developing explainable and equitable models, validating tools in real-world settings, and building large,
FAIR-compliant datasets. Responsible, human-centered integration of AI has the
potential to improve early intervention, personalize treatment, and enhance equitable access to mental healthcare for young people globally.