THE TIES BETWEEN PARENTING PATTERN AND SUICIDAL IDEAS AMONG UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS IN DELTA STATE UNIVERSITY, ABRAKA.

Abstract

The study explored the linkage between parenting pattern and suicidal ideas among undergraduate students at Delta State University, Abraka. The research was guided by four research questions and four hypotheses. It utilized a correlational research design and included a population of 40,534 students at Delta State University. The sample size of 385 students was obtained through a simple random sampling technique using balloting. Data was collected using a questionnaire called the Parenting Pattern and Suicidal Ideas Rating Scale (PSSTRS), which encompassed the four parenting pattern and suicidal ideas. The instrument's internal consistency was assessed using Cronbach Alpha, resulting in reliability indices of 0.75 for Dictatorial Parenting Pattern, 0.79 for Stern Parenting Pattern, 0.68 for Tolerant Parenting Pattern, 0.77 for Uninvolved Parenting Pattern, and 0.88 for Suicidal Ideas. To address the research questions, Pearson Moment Correlation Coefficient was employed, and the hypotheses were tested using Simple Regression analysis. The study's findings led to the following conclusions: Dictatorial Parenting Pattern demonstrated a weak linkage with suicidal ideas among undergraduate students at Delta State University, Abraka. Stern Parenting Pattern showed no association with suicidal ideas in this context. Both Tolerant and Uninvolved Parenting pattern exhibited very weak ties with suicidal ideas among undergraduate students at Delta State University, Abraka. Based on these findings and conclusions, the study offers several recommendations: Parents should invest more time in understanding their children and fulfilling their fundamental needs. Parents should also remain attentive to their children's academic, emotional, moral, and social requirements. Additionally, the university's Office of Student Affairs should be receptive to and address students' concerns.