Effectiveness of Marital Conflict Resolution Mechanisms in Fostering Marriage Stability among Couples in Lagos State, Nigeria

Abstract

This study examined the effectiveness of marital conflict resolution mechanisms in enhancing marital stability among couples in Lagos State, Nigeria. Given the increasing global rates of marital discord and the unique socio-cultural context of Lagos State, it is essential to understand how conflict resolution strategies can contribute to the longevity of marriages. The study population included all couples in Lagos State, with the sample specifically drawn from couples in the Oriade Local Development Area. A descriptive survey research design was adopted, and a stratified random sampling technique was used to select a sample of 96 married couples. Data was collected using a self-constructed questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics. The findings indicated that marital conflicts experienced by individuals were manageable through the use of conflict resolution mechanisms. Validating conflict resolution strategies are the most strongly endorsed by respondents, indicating that these strategies are commonly and effectively used by couples in Lagos State; avoidant conflict resolution strategies are used but with less consensus among couples, reflecting a more varied approach to managing conflicts by avoidance; volatile conflict resolution strategies are present but are not as strongly endorsed as validating strategies, suggesting that while emotional expression is a part of conflict resolution, it is not the dominant method; and the influence of education levels and marriage types on marital stability is acknowledged by respondents, with a general agreement that these factors play a role in how conflicts are managed and resolved in marriages. The study recommended the establishment of marital conflict resolution centres in all Local Government Areas across Lagos State.