Exploring the Significance and Therapeutic Value of Oriki (COGNOMEN) in Shaping Perception of Yoruba Parents in Ibadan, Nigeria

This study examines the significance and therapeutic value of Oriki, the Yoruba tradition of cognomen, in influencing parental perceptions and practices within Ibadan, Nigeria. The therapeutic efficacy of Oriki is being progressively undermined by the influences of modernization, globalization, and the processes associated with civilization. Anchored in Symbolic Interactionism, the research explores the role of Oriki in identity formation, psychological resilience, and intergenerational transmission among Yoruba families. A qualitative methodology was employed, with data collected through semi-structured in-depth interviews (IDIs), key informant interviews (KIIs), and case studies involving Yoruba parents, clan chiefs, patriarchs, griot, poet, cultural experts, and practitioners. The findings reveal that Oriki acts as a dynamic cultural instrument that reinforces self-identity, social status, and moral values. Participants articulated how Oriki bolsters feelings of pride and belonging, enhancing psychological resilience and serving as a motivational resource during personal adversities. This study elucidates Oriki's impact on parenting paradigms, demonstrating how its recitation strengthens familial bonds, directs behavioral expectations, and nurtures emotional well-being. Besides, the research highlights the gendered dimensions of Oriki, indicating its reinforcement of traditional roles while simultaneously evolving within contemporary Yoruba society. The study also outlines Oriki’s therapeutic functions, illustrating its application in conflict resolution, emotional healing, and psychological reinforcement, particularly in challenging circumstances. Moreover, the research addresses the modern adaptations of Oriki, noting its resurgence through digital platforms and ongoing relevance among urban Yoruba youth. Despite the pressures of globalization and shifting societal norms, Oriki persists as a vital emblem of Yoruba cultural heritage, bridging historical and contemporary contexts. The paper concludes that integrating Oriki into modern parenting and therapeutic frameworks may yield culturally relevant strategies for enhancing self-esteem and emotional stability among Yoruba individuals. Thus, it is paramount to acknowledge that Oriki remains a profound cultural resource, shaping identity, resilience, and intergenerational continuity while dynamically adapting to contemporary contexts. It is vital to preserve Oriki's therapeutic value and promote its continued use across traditional and modern settings to ensure effective intergenerational transmission.