Research Proposal
Title: The Impact of Lack of Parental Control and Monitoring on Children in Kama Village, Goroka, Eastern Highlands Province
1. Introduction
In recent years, the issue of parental involvement and monitoring has garnered significant attention within the realm of child development, particularly in rural contexts. Kama Village, located in the Eastern Highlands Province of Papua New Guinea, presents a unique environment for examining the effects of diminished parental control and oversight on children's wellbeing and behavior. This study aims to explore how varying levels of parental control and monitoring influence children's academic performance, social behavior, and overall development in Kama Village.
2. Background and Rationale
Parental control and monitoring refer to the mechanisms through which parents influence their children’s behavior, decisions, and environment. In rural settings like Kama Village, socio-economic factors, cultural norms, and educational resources impact parental oversight. There is a growing concern that a lack of effective parenting leads to negative outcomes, including decreased academic achievement, increased risk-taking behaviors, and potential engagement in criminal activities.
This research seeks to provide insights into the specific dynamics at play in Kama Village and to address the following questions:
- What are the current parenting practices in Kama Village concerning monitoring and control?
- How does a lack of parental oversight affect children's academic performance and social behavior?
- What are the perceptions of parents and children regarding the role of parental control in their development?
3. Objectives of the Study
- To assess the current levels of parental control and monitoring exercised by caregivers in Kama Village.
- To investigate the impact of parental monitoring on children's academic achievements and behaviors.
- To explore parental and community perceptions about the importance of monitoring children.
- To identify possible interventions to enhance parental engagement and control in Kama Village.
4. Methodology
4.1 Research Design This study will employ a mixed-methods research approach, combining quantitative surveys and qualitative interviews to gather comprehensive data on the issue at hand.
4.2 Participants Participants will include:
- Parents or guardians of children aged 6-15 years in Kama Village.
- Local school teachers from Kama Village.
- Children aged 10-15 years.
A sample size of approximately 100 parents and 30 teachers will be targeted. Additionally, focus groups will be organized with children to understand their perspectives.
4.3 Data Collection Methods
-
Surveys: A structured questionnaire will be developed to quantify parental monitoring levels and children’s academic performance. The survey will include items related to the frequency and nature of parental monitoring practices and children's reported behaviors.
-
Interviews: Semi-structured interviews will be conducted with selected parents, teachers, and older children to gather qualitative insights regarding perceptions and experiences related to parental control.
-
Focus Groups: These will be used to facilitate discussions among children to understand their feelings and opinions about parental control.
4.4 Data Analysis Quantitative data will be analyzed using statistical software to identify correlations between parental control and child outcomes. Qualitative data from interviews and focus groups will be evaluated using thematic analysis to derive key themes and patterns.
5. Significance of the Study
Understanding the lack of parental control and monitoring in Kama Village has the potential to contribute to the fields of child development, educational policy, and community welfare. The findings may inform local authorities and NGOs regarding the need for programs that promote parental engagement and provide resources for parents to adopt better monitoring practices.
6. Expected Outcomes
The research is expected to reveal:
- A detailed portrayal of parenting practices in Kama Village.
- Evidence of the impact of parental control on children's educational performance and behavior.
- Insightful perceptions from parents and children about the role of parental engagement.
Additionally, the study aims to generate recommendations for community programs that enhance parental involvement, thereby bettering children’s development outcomes in the region.
7. Timeline
The proposed duration for this research project is six months, with the following timeline:
- Month 1: Literature Review and Research Design Finalization
- Month 2: Data Collection (Surveys and Interviews)
- Month 3: Data Analysis
- Month 4: Drafting Findings and Recommendations
- Month 5: Review and Revision of the Final Report
- Month 6: Submission of Final Report and Dissemination of Findings
8. Budget
An estimated budget will be prepared covering data collection materials, travel expenses to and from Kama Village, remuneration for participants, and any other necessary resources.
9. Conclusion
This research aims to shed light on the critical issue of parental control in Kama Village, underlining the importance of monitoring and guidance in fostering positive outcomes for children. By addressing this gap in knowledge, the study will contribute to developing community-based strategies that enhance parental engagement and ultimately support children’s successful development in Eastern Highlands Province.
This proposal serves as a foundation for a thorough investigation and can be expanded or adjusted based on further insights or specific institutional requirements.