Project – Parental challenges in raising godly children in rural setting

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Raising godly children in the 21st century, particularly from an African home, presents a unique set of challenges. The case study of Oshodi, Lagos State, provides a microcosm of these challenges. The first challenge is the influence of Western culture and secularism, which has permeated African societies, including Nigeria. This influence often conflicts with traditional African values, including religious beliefs and practices. The advent of the internet and social media has further exacerbated this challenge, as children are exposed to a wide range of cultural influences that may not align with their parents’ religious beliefs (Ojebuyi & Oyesomi, 2017).

Secondly, the economic situation in many African countries, including Nigeria, poses a significant challenge. Many parents in Oshodi, Lagos State, work long hours to provide for their families, leaving them with little time to instill religious values in their children. This lack of parental guidance and supervision often leads to children seeking guidance from peers or the media, which may not provide the godly counsel parents desire (Adeyemi, M.A., & Adeyinka, A.A., 2002).

Thirdly, the education system in many African countries does not adequately incorporate religious education. In Oshodi, Lagos State, for example, religious education is often relegated to the periphery of the curriculum. This lack of emphasis on religious education in schools means that children are not getting the necessary guidance to develop godly character (Ogunyemi, B.O., 2001).

The fourth challenge is the erosion of communal living, which was a hallmark of traditional African societies. In the past, the responsibility of raising a child was shared by the community. However, urbanization and modernization have led to the breakdown of this communal living, leaving parents to shoulder the responsibility of raising godly children alone (Mbiti, J.S., 1991).

The fifth challenge is the rise of religious pluralism in many African societies. In Oshodi, Lagos State, for example, there is a growing number of religious groups, each with its own beliefs and practices. This religious diversity can confuse children and make it difficult for parents to instill a specific set of religious values in their children (Falola & Heaton, 2008).

Raising godly children in the 21st century from an African home, as exemplified by the case study of Oshodi, Lagos State, is fraught with challenges. These challenges require concerted efforts from parents, religious institutions, and the government to overcome.

• Statement of the Problem

The problem of raising godly children in an African home in the 21st century is a complex one, particularly in urban areas like Oshodi, Lagos State. The rapid urbanization and globalization have brought about a shift in cultural values and norms, which has significantly impacted the traditional African parenting style (Adeyemi and Adeyinka, 2002). The influence of Western culture, through media and technology, has also posed a challenge to the African parents’ efforts to instill godly values in their children (Oduaran, 2011).

Moreover, the economic challenges faced by many African families have led to both parents working full time, leaving little time for direct parental guidance (Adepoju, 2005). This has resulted in children being left to the influence of peers and media, which may not always align with the godly values parents wish to instill (Oduaran, 2011). The lack of time and resources for parents to engage in religious activities with their children further exacerbates the problem (Adeyemi and Adeyinka, 2002).

The educational system in many African countries, including Nigeria, has also been criticized for not adequately incorporating religious and moral education into the curriculum (Adeyemi and Adeyinka, 2002). This leaves a gap in the children’s moral and spiritual development, which parents may struggle to fill due to the aforementioned challenges (Oduaran, 2011).

Furthermore, the societal pressure to succeed materially often overshadows the importance of spiritual growth, making it difficult for parents to raise godly children (Adepoju, 2005). The societal norms and expectations often conflict with the godly values parents wish to instill, creating a dilemma for both parents and children (Oduaran, 2011).

Lastly, the lack of support from the community and the church in raising godly children is another significant challenge (Adeyemi and Adeyinka, 2002). In traditional African societies, child-rearing was a communal effort. However, in the 21st century, this communal support system seems to be eroding, leaving parents to face the challenges of raising godly children alone (Oduaran, 2011).

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine Parental challenges in raising godly children in rural setting- A case study of Oshodi, Lagos State.

1. To understand the unique challenges African parents face in raising godly children in a rapidly changing socio-cultural environment.
2. To explore the role of African traditional values and beliefs in shaping the spiritual upbringing of children.
3. To examine the influence of Western culture and modernity on the religious upbringing of children in Rural setting.
4. To identify strategies African parents employ to instill godly values in their children amidst these challenges.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What are the unique challenges African parents face in raising godly children in a rapidly changing socio-cultural environment?
2. How do African traditional values and beliefs shape the spiritual upbringing of children?
3. What is the influence of Western culture and modernity on the religious upbringing of children in Rural setting?
4. What strategies do African parents employ to instill godly values in their children amidst these challenges?

• Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is stated below:

Ho: African traditional values and beliefs has no significant impact in shaping the spiritual upbringing of children.

H1: African traditional values and beliefs has significant impact in shaping the spiritual upbringing of children.

• Significance of the Study

The study on the challenges of raising godly children from an African home is of great significance as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the unique difficulties African parents face in nurturing their children’s spirituality in a rapidly changing socio-cultural environment. This understanding is crucial as it can help in developing strategies and interventions to support these parents and ensure the spiritual well-being of their children.

Secondly, the study is significant as it explores the role of African traditional values and beliefs in shaping the spiritual upbringing of children. This exploration can provide insights into how these values and beliefs can be harnessed to foster a godly upbringing, thereby preserving cultural heritage and promoting spiritual growth among African children.

The third significance of this study lies in its examination of the influence of Western culture and modernity on the religious upbringing of children in Rural setting. This examination is important as it can help in understanding the extent to which Western culture and modernity are affecting the spiritual development of African children and how this influence can be mitigated.

Fourthly, the study is significant as it seeks to identify strategies African parents employ to instill godly values in their children amidst these challenges. The identification of these strategies can provide a blueprint for other parents facing similar challenges and can also inform policy and practice in areas related to child upbringing and spiritual development.

The fifth significance of this study is that it can contribute to the body of knowledge in the field of child upbringing, spirituality, and cultural studies. The findings of this study can be used by researchers, educators, and policymakers to make informed decisions and develop effective strategies for promoting godly values among children.

Lastly, the study is significant as it can promote dialogue and understanding among different cultures. By highlighting the unique challenges and strategies of African parents in raising godly children, the study can foster cultural exchange and mutual understanding, thereby promoting cultural diversity and inclusivity.

• Scope of the Study

The study examines Parental challenges in raising godly children in rural setting- A case study of Oshodi, Lagos State.

• Operational Definition of Terms

1. Critical Look: This refers to an in-depth analysis or examination of a particular subject or issue. In this context, it means a thorough examination of the challenges of raising godly children from an African home.
2. Challenges: These are difficulties or obstacles that make a task or goal difficult to achieve. In this context, it refers to the difficulties African parents face in raising their children to be godly.
3. Raising Godly Children: This is the process of bringing up children in a way that they grow to have a deep reverence for God and live according to His teachings. It involves instilling in them moral and spiritual values that align with the teachings of the Bible.
4. African Home: This refers to a household or family setting within the African context. It is characterized by specific cultural, social, and moral values and practices unique to the African society.
5. 21st Century: This is the current century, from the year 2000 to the present. It is characterized by rapid technological advancements, globalization, and cultural shifts, which can influence various aspects of life, including child upbringing.

Project – Parental challenges in raising godly children in rural setting