ABSTRACT

This study examines the effect of marital problems on the education of children with special needs in Buea Municipality. Marital issues, including conflict, separation, and divorce, can significantly impact family dynamics and, consequently, the educational experiences and outcomes of children with special needs.

Marital problems can lead to psychological stress for both parents and children. This stress can manifest in various ways, including reduced parental involvement in the child’s education and less consistent support at home. The study employs a mixed-methods approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews with parents, teachers, and caregivers of children with special needs.

Quantitative data were collected through surveys administered to a sample of parents experiencing marital difficulties. The survey assessed their perceptions of how marital issues affected their ability to support their child’s education. Qualitative data were gathered through in-depth interviews with educators and caregivers to understand their observations of the impact on the children’s learning and development.

Key findings indicate that marital problems significantly disrupt the educational support system for children with special needs. Parental involvement in school activities, homework assistance, and emotional support are often compromised. Teachers report that children from such backgrounds frequently exhibit behavioral issues, including reduced concentration, lower motivation, and emotional distress.

The study also highlights that academic performance and social integration of these children are adversely affected. Marital conflicts lead to inconsistent educational support, which exacerbates learning challenges and affects self-esteem and social interactions.

Recommendations include providing support programs for families facing marital issues to help mitigate their impact on children’s education. Schools and community organizations should offer counseling services and parenting workshops to improve family dynamics and educational outcomes. Additionally, educators should be trained to recognize signs of stress related to marital problems and offer targeted support to affected students.

In conclusion, marital problems have a profound effect on the education of children with special needs in Buea Municipality. Addressing these issues through targeted interventions can improve the educational experiences and outcomes for these vulnerable children.

Keywords: marital problems, special needs education, parental involvement, educational support, Buea Municipality, psychological stress, academic performance.