Social, Religious and Cultural Factors on Child Adoption in Ondo State, Nigeria.

@article{1722317,
      author = {Ogunleye Oluwole Festus},
      title = {Social, Religious and Cultural Factors on Child Adoption in Ondo State, Nigeria.},
      journal = {Iconic Research And Engineering Journals},
      year = {2026},
      volume = {9},
      number = {9},
      pages = {4121-4133},
      issn = {2456-8880},
      url = {https://www.irejournals.com/formatedpaper/1722317.pdf},
      abstract = {Child adoption is a legal and social practice that provides care for children without parents or guardians. In Ondo State, adoption is influenced by a number of factors such as social, religious, and cultural factors that shape how families and communities perceive the process. This study explores these influences, highlighting causes, effects, challenges, and possible solutions. Using a mixed-methods approach that combined interviews, surveys, and observation, the research examined the perspectives of families, religious leaders, social workers, and community elders. Findings reveal that adoption is often resisted due to cultural traditions emphasizing lineage and inheritance, religious teachings that discourage formal adoption, and social stigma that makes adoption secretive. Poverty and orphanhood increase the need for adoption, while education and urbanization improve acceptance. The study concludes that adoption in Ondo State is not only a legal matter but also a deeply social and cultural issue. Recommendations include public education campaigns, religious engagement, government policy reforms, community awareness programs, legal protections, professional training, and positive media representation to make adoption more acceptable and accessible.},
      keywords = {child adoption, yoruba culture, social stigma, religious beliefs, poverty.},
      month = {March},
      doi = {https://doi.org/10.64388/IREV9I9-1722317}
  }