Chapter One — 1.1 Background to the Study

Over the past decade, the relationship between widowhood practices and youth deviant behaviour has become a subject of considerable debate among scholars and industry practitioners alike, particularly within the context of Lagos State where operating conditions differ markedly from more developed markets.

Within the context of Lagos State, this relationship carries particular significance. Organizations in this setting operate under a distinct combination of economic, regulatory, and market conditions that may amplify or dampen the effect of widowhood practices on youth deviant behaviour, making a context-specific inquiry both timely and necessary.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

While widowhood practices is widely discussed in policy and industry circles, empirical evidence on its actual effect on youth deviant behaviour within Lagos State remains sparse and, in places, contradictory. This lack of localized, rigorous evidence makes it difficult for decision-makers to know with confidence whether current approaches to widowhood practices are helping or hindering youth deviant behaviour — a gap this study sets out to close.

1.3 Objectives of the Study

1. To examine the effect of Widowhood Practices on youth deviant behaviour in Lagos State.
2. To assess the extent to which widowhood practices influences youth deviant behaviour within the study area.
3. To identify the challenges associated with widowhood practices in relation to youth deviant behaviour.
4. To recommend strategies for optimizing widowhood practices in order to improve youth deviant behaviour.

1.4 Research Questions

1. What is the effect of widowhood practices on youth deviant behaviour in Lagos State?
2. To what extent does widowhood practices influence youth deviant behaviour within the study area?
3. What challenges are associated with widowhood practices in relation to youth deviant behaviour?
4. What strategies can be adopted to optimize widowhood practices in order to improve youth deviant behaviour?

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study is significant to a range of stakeholders. For policymakers and regulators, the findings offer evidence to guide the design of frameworks that support healthier outcomes around youth deviant behaviour. For managers and practitioners within Lagos State, the study provides practical insight into how widowhood practices can be better managed. Finally, it contributes to the academic literature on sociology by extending existing knowledge into a specific empirical context, and offers a reference point for future researchers.

1.6 Scope of the Study

In terms of scope, this PhD study confines itself to Lagos State, focusing specifically on how widowhood practices relates to youth deviant behaviour within that setting. Findings are interpreted within these boundaries rather than as universal claims applicable to every organization or market.