Perceived Influence of Childhood Trauma and Parenting Styles on Antisocial Behavior among Secondary School Students in APO Federal Capital Territory, Abuja, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined influence of childhood trauma and parenting styles on antisocial behavior among secondary school students in Apo Federal capital territory, Abuja, Nigeria. A survey research design was used to select a sample of 187 participants. Their demographic characteristics included 109 males (58.8%) and 78 females (41.2%). In addition to providing demographic data, participants responded to standardized self-reports, including socio-demographic questionnaires. Data was analyzed using appropriate descriptive and inferential statistics. Overall, three hypotheses were formulated and tested at a 0.05 level of significance, using simple linear and multiple regression analysis. Findings revealed that childhood trauma positively influences antisocial behavior among secondary school students (β = .564, t = 5.331, p < .05). Furthermore, neglectful parenting was associated with the strongest positive influence on antisocial behavior (β = .306, t = 4.775, p < .05); authoritarian parenting also had a strong positive influence (β = .256, t = 4.206, p < .05), followed by permissive parenting (β = .165, t = 3.242, p = .05). The study concluded that schools should implement counseling services and psychosocial support programs to help students cope with childhood trauma and reduce antisocial tendencies. Parents should be educated on effective parenting strategies, emphasizing authoritative practices that combine warmth, responsiveness, and structured guidance.