Household Economic Stress and Child Development in Ogui Nike Community, Enugu State, Nigeria

Household economic stress has become one of the most powerful forces shaping children’s social and emotional development in urban Nigerian communities. This study is to examine the effects of household economic stress on the social and emotional development of children in Ogui Nike Community in Enugu North L.G.A. Specifically, the study seeks to; assess the impact of household economic stress on the social development of children in Ogui Nike Community in Enugu North L.G.A; evaluate the effect of household economic stress on the emotional well-being of children in Ogui Nike Community in Enugu North L.G.A. and identify family and community factors that can mitigate the impact of economic stress on children’s social and emotional development. The research was guided by the Family Stress Model. A cross-sectional survey design was used, and data were collected from 343 caregivers selected through multi-stage sampling. A structured questionnaire captured information on household financial conditions, parental stress, and children’s social and emotional behaviours. Findings showed that economic stress significantly affects children’s development. More than half of the respondents reported that financial difficulties reduced children’s social participation, increased withdrawal, lowered confidence, and limited peer interactions. Emotional impacts were also substantial, with children commonly exhibiting worry, sadness, restlessness, and loss of interest in activities. Arguments at home, unmet basic needs, and changes in parents’ mood were identified as major triggers of emotional instability. The study also found that family practices such as open communication and shared problem-solving, alongside community supports like school counseling and religious groups help reduce negative outcomes. The study concludes that household economic stress poses a serious challenge to children’s social and emotional wellbeing in the community. It recommends strengthening family support systems, expanding schoolbased social-emotional programs, and improving local social protection interventions to enhance child development and family stability.