Influence of Parental Factors on Students’ Problem-Solving Skills in Ondo State

This study aimed to explore the influence of parental factors on the development
of problem-solving skills among students in Ondo State, Nigeria. The research
sought to investigate how parental involvement, parenting styles, socioeconomic
status, and cultural factors contribute to students' ability to solve problems
effectively in academic and real-life contexts. The study involved 100
respondents, including both students and their parents, who were surveyed using
a structured questionnaire designed to gather insights into the parents' level of
involvement in education, their parenting styles, the socioeconomic conditions in
which they live, and the cultural context in which the students are raised. The
findings revealed that active parental involvement, such as attending school
meetings, assisting with homework, and setting educational goals, positively
impacted students' problem-solving skills. Additionally, authoritative parenting,
characterized by warmth, clear expectations, and emotional support, was found
to foster better problem-solving abilities in students. In contrast, authoritarian or
neglectful parenting styles were less effective in supporting the development of
these skills. The study also found that socioeconomic status significantly
affected students’ access to resources, which in turn influenced their problem-
solving skills. Students from higher-income families had better access to
educational resources and extracurricular activities, contributing to stronger
cognitive abilities. Cultural values in Ondo State, such as resilience and respect
for authority, shaped students' approach to problem-solving, although these
values sometimes limited independent thinking. Overall, the study highlights the
crucial role of parental involvement, supportive parenting styles, socioeconomic
factors, and cultural influences in the development of students' problem-solving
skills. These findings provide valuable insights for educators and policymakers
in fostering these skills in Nigerian students.