Hosea Kakula Project

CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Marriage has been variously define by different scholars, Amao-Kehinde (1999) define
marriage as a sacred and permanent contact between a man and a woman who has consented
to live a life of vocation, love and sharing for each other for the purpose of promoting their
mutual growth and welfare as persons in their Jurny through life. This implies that marital
relationship is meant to be lifelong one until the death of a partner. Anuka (2007) state that
marriage is a legal union of two adult of the opposite sex who live together in joy and
sadness, sorrow and tears, peace and harmony till death separate them. This implies that
marital relationship between couples may experience problems, difficulties, challenges,
conflict, and confusion at one time or another.
According to Sholfer and Shoben (2006) marital relationship experience crises and
conflict that sometimes result in divorce, separation, broken homes, violence against women
or men, child neglect and several other devastation effect of intra-marital conflicts. In spite of
the fact that couples are aware of the intimate contract they are into and the implication of
this contract to their lives, they encounter challenges largely depends on how effective the
couples are in managing their marital relationship. There are so many factors affecting
marital relationships. According to Onyechi
(2003) such factors include lake of sexual satisfaction, childlessness, communication gap, in-
law influence, poverty among others, these factors generate crises and conflict that are
detrimental to marital relationship such as desertion, negligence, malicious beating, child
abuse, secondment, assault, disobedient and several, other feature in marital relationship.
There however some positive factors such as good communication, marital intimacy other
that tends to straighten marital relationships. Nwobi. (2005) observe that over the years, the
society has witnessed an alarming rate of divorce, marital dissatisfaction, loss of affection
between couples and cases of marital violence. According to him, these ugly situations that
are caused either by the spouse, their parents or friends result to maltreatment, desertion,
negligence, children custody, child abuse, child neglect, abscondment, malicious beating
among others.
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According to Agupugo (2008) marital conflict is on the increase, and the society
needs efficient and affective marital Counselors to handle these problems before they get out
of control. Also Garba (2005) asserts that at the initial time couples have high opinion of each
other, they overflow with joyous thoughts. Each has a firm intention of pleasing and
nourishing feeling s of affection and love towards a person who is about to be a partner for
life. Some years after, the newly wedded discover that they have entered into an entirely
different world and that nothing is quite the same as it was before marriage. He went further
to say that as time goes on, things begin to change, the romantic relationship once enjoyed
begin to
Fade as they may be living in a chronic situation of hate. Fear and confusion resulting in and
unending conflict. It is inevitable that individuals involved in ongoing relationship will
experience marital conflict.
Personal characteristic are those human trait or factors that helps to distinguish one
person from another. The personality factors that are often considered in this regard include
gender, age, marital status, educational background, occupational status, length of marriage
and others (Mmaduakonam, 2007), these factors according to Robbins (2009) help a great
deal to account for observable differences in our behavioral traits. Gender here refers to male
or female, gender equity and fairness is key to success in any marital affair or relations. The
way a man values a woman determines how he treats her and vice-versa. So, the principle of
equity should be the guiding principle in any marital relationship. Without gender equity and
fairness marital relationship becomes exploitative and may result to injustice and conflict and
conflict between couples. The educational background of couples or married people matter a
lot, the educational qualification goes a long way to determine the behavior of each of the
partner, as education is a veritable tool for acquiring skills, which may relate to stability in
marriage. The educational level of couples has also been identified as a factor that affect
family stability (Okoye, 2003). He contended that in most families where the husband and
wife are literate, the incidence of marital problems is minimal when compared with non-
literate couples. This finding might be attributed to fact that educated men and women appear
very
Humble, calm, quiet and tolerant in view of the kind of training received while at school
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There is abundant evidence from the above to show that once behaviour is determine
by some this personal attributes. The question this study address is whether these personal
factors have a relationship with the marital conflict resolution strategies being employed by
married people in Jos South Local Government Area of plateau state. Based on this, the
researcher is interested in finding out the relationship between personal factor and marital
conflict resolution strategies among married people in the area of study.
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
In an attempt to resolve marital conflicts, some couples employ different strategies

depending on their experience and personal characteristics. Often times, these strategies do
not help in ameliorating the problem as many couples end up getting more maladjusted
couples adopt these wrong strategies that rather aggravate the conflict situations.
In addition, strategies used in resolving conflict appear to be predicted on some

personal factors such as gender, age, length of marriage, educational level, and experience
among others. Hence it becomes expedient that the relationship between couples personal
factor and marital conflict resolution strategies be explored with a View to assisting couples
adopt useful strategies. It is against this background, the study is investigating the
relationship between personal factors and marital conflict resolution strategies among married
people in Jos South L.G.A.
1.3 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY
The purpose of the study generally was to find the relationship between personal
factor and marital conflict resolution strategies among married people in Jos South L.G.A.
specifically, the study sought to:-
i. Examine personal factor and cause of marital conflict among married people.
ii. Find out the strategies employed by married people in resolving conflicts.
iii. Find out the extent to which the strategies employed are effective in resolving conflict
marital conflict among married people
1.4 RESEACH QUESTIONS
The following research questions were raise to guide the study.
i. What are the personal factors and causes of marital conflict among married people?
ii. What are the strategies employed by married people in resolving marital conflict?
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iii. To what extent are the strategies effective in resolving marital conflict among married
people?
1.5 Significant of the Study

The finding of this study will provide empirical information that relates to personal
factors and marital conflict resolution strategy. Such information will enable researchers.
Marriage counselors. Therapies and social workers to have a better understanding and
conceptualization of marriage conflict, cause and different resolution strategies and their
effectiveness and how they relates to personal factors.
Marriage counselling will help reduce the escalating rate of divorce in our society.
When parent reflect on the effect of divorce on couples, their children and society they will
prefer to adopt strategies to resolve conflicts.
Practically the findings of the study will be great significant to family and intending
couples considering to get married. The finding will help them to be aware of marital
conflict resolution strategies being employed by married people within the area and how
effective they are.
Furthermore, the findings will be significant to couples experiencing conflict. When the
result is made known to the public through workshops and seminars. Couples at the verge of
divorce as a result of conflict will be at advantage. Such couples will now be aware of such
conflict resolution strategies that are effective and be able same in their situation. Bearing
such personal factors and their influence in conflict resolution, one will be equipped with
factors that could enhance or mar conflict resolution.
The finding will equip coordinators of pre-marital education both in churches an non church
settings such as the priests, pastors, prophets, prophetesses and all others who by virtue of
their duties encounter people or couples with marital problem with information, which they
might use in similar situations.
Finally, it is hoped that this study will add to the existing body of educational research
literature, which might be harnessed for further research in this and other related fields.
1.6 Scope and Delimitation of the study
This study was carried out among married people in Jos South Local Government Area. The
study was carried out in three district out of the five district in the study area. The predictor
variable of this study (personal factors) was limited to gender, age, length of marriage,
education qualifications and occupational status of the couples. They study equally
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examined the strategies being employed and the extents they influence the resolution of
marital conflict.
The study was delimited by poor financial strength of the researchers. Time was also another
factor as well as the Terence of the area that hinder the researcher in covering a wider area
or the entire local government.
1.7 Operational of definition terms
For the purpose of this study, following terms were operationally defined as they are use in
the study.
Communication: this refers in the study as the means of exchange between people or more
than manages marital conflict. For instance, by means of speech their felling in any given
conflict,
Personal Factor: this refers to the characteristic such as gender, age, educational level and
length in marriage that prompt marital conflict among couples.
Couples: this refers in the study as married men and women who are legally joined together
as pairs, understanding each other through the knowledge of religious studies.
Marital Conflict: this refer in the study as the state of disagreement between couples that
can result to quarrel or breakup.
Marriage: this refer in the study as a legally recognized relationship, establish by a civil or
religious ceremony between two couples who lives together as sexual and domestic partners.
Strategy: this is a way or channel that is use to helping marital homes in resolving conflicts.
Home: the house of apartment that one live in, especially with his/her family.
Counselor: refer to that particular pastor or elder who is officially recognized and working in
a church, concerned with assisting couples to manage and solve their marital conflict
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CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
Following the facts that there are numerous literature on personal factors and
Marital conflicts, literature for this study were reviewed based on Nigeria and other countries
of the world. Literature for the present study is therefore presented under the following
heading: concept of marital conflict causes of marital conflict, concept personal factors
(characteristics). Theories of marital conflict as a correlate of marital conflict resolution
strategies and summary of literature review.
2.1 concept of Marital Conflict
Many writers have viewed in so many ways depending on their perceptions. Omojola (2008)
describes conflict and personality. Derver (2009) defines conflicts as the opposition between
contradiction impulses or wishes, intended to produce emotional tension and regressed the
disagreeable impulses. Conflict occurs when two people believe that their current desires,
aspirations, interests etc. cannot be achieved simultaneously. Conflict is common occurrences
in life; it arises within and among people, be it marriage, family or community, it involves
apparent but not always actual opposition between two people. Ezegbe (2007) says that
conflict is the mutual hospitality at inter- personal, inter- human, inter-actions levels. This
mutual hospitality can be verbal, physical or emotional depending on the nature of the
conflict. Within the marital setting verbal hospitality could be expressed in form of rebukes,
name-calling etc. while physical hospitality is expressed in the form of fighting, inflicting
injuries, termination of relationship etc.
Conflicts are bound to emanate from marriages and can arise when misunderstanding is the
order of the day between spouses. In some families, especially the illiterate or poor families
who understand marriage as the avenue for baby making, the pre-requisites of a peaceful
home via happiness may not be a vital condition to be met. There may be presence of marital
conflicts in such marriage where relationships such as parent-child, spouses spouse in-law
relationships lack peace and harmony. Marital conflicts refer to difficult relationships
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experienced by husband and wife in their marriage. Olusanya (2000) postulated that
marriage often involves conflicts because it seems hard for husband and wife to live together
year after year without having problems. In this context, it seems difficult for husband and
wife to escape conflict in their marriage relationship. Nwoye (2003) found that conflict in
marriage refers to dissensions between marital partners over values, beliefs, goals mores and
behaviors that make up the structure of nuclear unit. In other words, marital conflict is a
negative interaction in marriage, which can be verbal, or non- verbal or both in which the
husband and wife aim to neutralize, injuries and disgrace each other.
Marital instability (conflict) is the failure of husband and wife to perform their role
obligations in marriage. Instability can be equated to disorganization and perceived unstable
marriage a problem ridden. In our present society, marriage institution has been affected by
problems, which is as a result of social changes. It seems likely that the impact of such
changes is becoming more drastic. Negative and severe on marriage. Marital conflict can be
referred to as marital disruption. Low marital quality and less frequently desertion, which
affects the stability of marriage (Alan and Johnson, 2003). Marital crises can be described as
period or institutions in the marriage, which require some adjustment so that harmony in
marriage relationships can resort. Marital crisis can either come from within or outside the
family. Also, many ordinary situations can often develop into crisis situation when the ability
to deal with its demands is not there. Hill and Blumen (2001) noted that crisis in general
cause instability because they mostly come from unexpected sources. In the same
development, they also said that conflicts in relationships are often experienced in crisis
situation as a result of destructive nature of crisis.
Marital conflict can be both internal and external. According to Anuka (2004) studies
demonstrated that much overt conflict is symbolic of some underlying tension in an area of
behavior than the one in which the overt manifest in the line, Saxon (2002) stated that there
are two categories of marital conflict viz internal and external. Internal to him is when the
two opposing needs that produce the conflict are felt by one person only but the conflict
affects the couple in their relationship. While it is external when there are opposing needs
between the couples, one person wants what the other does not want. Marital conflict is the
conflict between husband and wife in their marriage relationship. Nwoye (2003) opined
that conflict may center fostered through marriage enrichment programmes such as
communication skill training (COST) and cognitive restructuring (COR). This is because
when there is lack of communication, many things are repressed and left unsaid. The result of
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this leads to bitterness, frustration and tension within either of the partners. No marriage on
earth can escape conflict.
The causes of marital conflicts are man and inter-related, some are financial instability,
sexual disharmony, incompatibility, unmet needs, relationship - oriented factors among
others. Onyechi (2003) contends that there is a significant relationship between money
management and family stability. She also found that, instability of spouses to adequately
manage the financial resources of their family whether larger or small give rise to crisis in
marriage. Onyechi further agreed that what a person does for a living and the person’s
educational level are likely to influence family stability. She identified also that lack of
sexual satisfaction, childlessness, communication gap, in-law influence and poverty as major
factors that cause marital conflicts in most couples.
In another study, Ocho (2006) found contrary to Onyechi work that educational qualification,
age of marriage causes conflict in marriage. However, in Ocho’s work, he studied that
demographic variables of couples as correlates of marital problems in Enugu State. Ocho
agreed that variables such as educational qualifications, types of marriage, age of marriage
and management level of couples are major problems facing married men and women. His
findings suggested that all couples required to be educated and trained so as to recognize and
play their roles in the family. The researchers agree with the suggestion and findings because
education is life wire to every society and has a relationship with the way couples behave.
Therefore, the researcher wants to find out if personal factors as education, age of marriage
and occupational level have a relationship with marital resolution strategies among married
couples.
Asana (2000) in his study worked on problems of marriage and family life in African context,
viewed from the perspective of the Christian pastor as a councilor. Found out that many
things can cause conflict in homes. They include issues like Childlessness, Religion Finance,
parents in –law, extravagant, negligence of duties, extra- marital affairs and inappropriate
communication among others. Okere (2003) worked on marital satisfaction and female labor
force participation among marriage couples. He found out among others that fulltime wives
(non-working) exhibited higher degree of marital satisfaction generally than working
counterparts and men married to full time or non-working wives were generally more
martially satisfied than married men to work wives. Even though Okere’s work is on female
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labor force participation among married couples, it has been found that this is a contributory
factor to high rate of divorce in Nigeria and elsewhere.
Denga (1993) found out that no single factor could be held responsible for marital crisis. He
is of the view that many factors many have combine to affect marriage institution. He study
recommended that counselors should help couples to explore strategies available to seek for
resolution of identified that brings about communication gap and crisis among married
couples.
Nweke(2009) blamed causes of marital conflict on husbands while others blamed it on

promiscuity on the part of wives. Inability of wives to handle domestic chores and wives
peer. Nwobi (2005) revealed that couples background factors that include the marriage,
academic qualification, income and number of children; type of marriage among others
increases the level of their adjustment to marital issues. The work did not consider other
personal study.
Ifezue (2000) discovered that there are many factors individually or in combination that lead
to marital conflict. Such factors, according to her, are lack of love between couples,
infidelity, childlessness problem of in-laws, habitual drunkenness, going in to marriage with
unrealistic expectations, improper communication among others. Even though her study did
not work on personal factors, the factors mentioned were association with marital conflicts.
2.3 Concept of personal factors (Characteristics)

In considering roles of personal factors/ characteristics in conflict and conflict resolution, the
question that needs to be answered is whether personal characteristics aggravate conflict or
act as a buffer. In considering the issue of sex, Shaw (2002) rightly observed that a persons’
vulnerability to conflict could be exacerbated by the sex stereotyping of his/her occupation.
This according to might be the case of teaching, which is often thought of as woman’s
occupation. Also Omeje (2000) opined that the issue of sex is a factor in maintaining marital
stability in a conflict situation. According to him, the man can forget easily the cause of the
quarrel but the nightmare of such quarrel is always with the woman. What this implies is that
male would be less tolerant of the irritant association with marriage than female. Whether this
true married people in conflict resolution need to be ascertained and this study will provide
this.
On marital status our focus will be on married, separated, divorced and widowed. Each
category is associated with some roles. The categories are not mutually exclusive in terms of
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family roles assigned by society to members of each of the categories. There is considerable
overlap; this may explain why in the consideration of marital status only two categories are
usually highlighted. Nevertheless, “marital status” as a variable offers a good frame of
reference in our attempts to explicate how family roles influence our experiences in life
phenomena (Bailyn, 2000).
In discussing conflict, Onoyase (2008) identified two major broad cause of conflict in
our educational institutions, which to him are behavioral and structural based conflict. The
behavioral based conflict is not attributed to the way the system has been structured but to the
personal behavior of the individual as they relate with themselves. This behavior-base
conflict may be caused according to him by different traits in personal make-up, differences
in personal background, among others. Njoku (2005) remarked that the intensity of
personality conflict would vary as a function of certain emotional, characteristics. Therefore,
individual differences in “felt” conflict within a given social system would be a function of
personality disorder.
In this view, Owens-Ibie (2000) has argued that conflict is often a result of poor, and
in effective communication, breakdown of normal communication, social-cultural factors,
environmental factors, personality, (demographic or psychographic) factors, it could also be
influenced by economic and political consideration.
Generally, is it believed that younger people exhibit more resilience to conflict
situation that the older ones. The study of relation between job-relate stress and certain
personal characteristics (Koch, Tung, Gamelch & Swent, 2002) revealed that age and
experience among others were found to have differential effects among subjects. They
reported that tack-based stress declined with age while role- based stress did not. Langer
(2002) has earlier reported that symptoms of tress appear to increase according to age until
the age bracket of 39-44, where a decline sets in. what this implies is that age performs a
moderating role in conflict situation.
2.4 theories of marital conflict
In order to understand the postulations of marital conflict, scholars have evolved
different theory models in explaining marital conflict or dysfunction. In this study, we shall
discuss only two theories, such theories are the ole theory and the communication theory.
The Roles Theory Models +
The roles theory model was propounded y Manus (1957) that proposes that in any
marital conflict situation or discontentment, the causative factors is use to rule conflict. His
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emerges in a situation where there is a disagreement between partners on their different roles
expectations. To explain how the theories come about, the theory assumes that.
a) Each partner in any marriage usually enters the marriage not with some ideas or
perceptions as to her or she should behave but also with certain expectation as to how
the other should behave.
b) Each marriage, harbors not only expectation as to what should be done by the other in
marriage, but also how the roles expected of the other should be executed.
c) Problem in marital adjustment usually arise when these inter-personal role
expectations conflict or disagree
d) Disagreement in marital role expectation actually arise due mainly to the fact that two
parties in the marriage come from different family/social backgrounds and usually
lack the opportunity (before or after marriage) to sit down and discuss and harmonize
for themselves what each is expected to do in the marriage.
e) Because this expectation are functioned from different social backgrounds there is
therefore the tendency for each roles conflict, leading in practical terms to the crisis of
role strains among the parties concerned.
f) Conflict often arise where a partner perception of self, differs significantly or is
critically opposed to what the other partner perceives him or her to be.
g) Sanctions in marital life are the rewards or punishment, which each partner
administers to the other to the degree to which each meets or fails to meet the others
expectation in the relationship in question. Thus, where a husband’s role performance
deviates from the wife’s expectation. The wife may be forced to apply negative
sanctions like crying, quarrelling, nagging or withdrawal of affection to protest
against the husbands.
According to Mangus, role theory equally stipulates that in a situation of marital union where
the husband assumes superior position to that of the wife, there is usually role conflict
because of disagreement and lack of compromise between the two. Such conflict is always a
devastating type in a situation where the misperceived partner in the marriage fails to see and
understand in clear terms the basic for his or her being misperceived. The role theory model
of marital conflict assumes that in any marriage union, if couples are not able to meet up with
the expected roles they set for one another in the marriage, marital conflict must ensure.
Based on these formulations, the role theory model assumes that human interaction in general
move along smooth lives only where the following conditions are fulfilled.
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a) Where the parties in interaction agree clearly on their norms and on what to
expect from each other in marriage.
b) Where the parties involved, agree among themselves as to the role definition and
expectation each holds about the other, and
c) Where positive sanctions are used on a regular basis to reward role performance
of one partner that the other agree with the role expectation of the other.
Marriage partners enter into marriage with divergent opinions about what to expect of
each other in their marriage. The theory holds that when couples fail to reach a consensus in
the roles each party has to play in the family, such couple usually have problem in their
home.
The Marital Communication Theory Model
The marital communication theory model was propounded by Weakland (1956).

According to him conflict in marriage is due to inappropriate communication. The theory
stipulates that conflict ensures in marriage relationship in a situation where there is confusion
and lack of clarity in communication pattern of husband and wife. This is a situation when
the partner who receiving the message of the communication finds it very difficult to make a
meaning out of the communication.
When there is such confusion and lack of understanding in the communication

between couples, the tendency is for the confused partner to reject the communication
thereby creating a vacuum, which leads to conflict. Also the presence of noise in the
communication network leads to conflict in marriage. However, Filani (2005) reported that
lack of communication among couples is an important source of marital problem. This is
because many things are repressed and left unsaid. The result of which leads to bitterness,
frustration, and tension within either of the partners.
According to the theory there are three levels in human communication where conflict can
raise. Such levels are at the syntactical level, the semantic level and the pragmatic level in
communication network. The syntactical level refers to the way the information is
transmitted; the semantic aspect has to do with the effect of the information on one another.
The marital communication theory model stipulates that problem s raise in marriage when
couples fail in their relationship to understand information conveyed y each other clearly.
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2.5 Personal factors as a correlate of marital conflict Resolution strategies.
The term “conflict resolution” for the purposes of this study, is defined what couples do to try
to restore harmony to their relationship during active conflict. The three most common
religious beliefs and practices that helped couples resolve marital conflict are (a) scriptural
teachings, (b) attendance at religious services, and (c) prayer (Ishaya, 20006). Graham (2009)
posited that frequent discussed spiritual teaching helps couples to resolve conflict. Several
couples mentioned that in time of conflict, they turned to scripture. Scripture also contained
helpful examples of relating to others. Conflict resolution is a process of managing a conflict
and negotiating a solution. It is best understood as a working model with two key elements,
conflict management and negotiation. Conflict resolution is a communication process for
changing the negative emotional states in conflict to emotional states that allow working out a
solution to the conflict. Negotiation is a communication process for enabling disputing
parities to their differences (Aremu, 2011).
Conflict occurs in every marriage. What often distinguishes a happier marriage from a less
happy marriage is how the conflict is resolved. Some couples never actually resolve conflict.
Instead, the conflict just seems to go away with time; however, it is certainly somewhere
under the surface breeding resentment and will usually come up again in the future. Some
couples insist they have no conflicts. In this case, one person is usually giving it to the other
and not complaining about it; however. The person giving in will usually have problems at
some point, such as depression or anxiety. There are so many other ways that couple handle
conflicts, some healthy and some not. If couples can learn to resolve conflicts in a healthy
way, conflict becomes easier to deal with and the marriage becomes stronger and happier.
Some of such healthy strategies will be highlighted below.
Onuoha (2003) however suggested variable such as communication, commitment, emotional

maturity, and age of individual, length of marriage or companionship as indicative of
judgment of couples in the marriage. Onuoha revealed that immaturity on the part of either of
couples cause marital failures; clash of temperament between the couples, men abandoning of
their economic responsibilities of their wives among others cause marital failure. Literature
abounds with respect to age of marriage couples. Rabbin and Rahar (2005) investigated the
similarities and differences between older and younger couples and between couples of
different ages and cultures. Result showed that the older couples had significantly lower
levels of distress, less desire for change in their marriage and better perceptual accuracy of
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the changes desired by their partners than the younger couples across culture. Landis (2007)
found that in line with theirs when he predicted better adjustment of couples at older age.
In another study by Nwakpudolu (1999) on factors in marital disharmony among couples in

Anambra state, she revealed that there are personal relate socio-economic, environmental,
religious and occupational factors in marital disharmony. Reviewing demographic studies on
divorces, Norton and Glick (2006) reported that age at first marriage, levels of income, and
levels of education were the variables demonstrated empirically to be related to marital
stability conflict.
McCahan (2003) reported a correlation of 47 between self-concept and marital

adjustment. Kemp (2004) found that those whose marriages functioned well are characterized
as having self-esteem, equalitarian role expectations attempting to promote growth in each
other, and agreeing on the goals of marriage. Lee and Gangs (2000) in a journal of marriage
and family wrote on the factors effecting the stability of marriage among the Yoruba of
western Nigeria, he discussed the relationship between marital stability and various factors
like age at marriage, type of marriage, number of wives, education status influence or is
significantly relate to marital stability. It did not consider other personal factors like, gender,
occupation status, length of marriage, hence the present study
In another study Adeloye (2003) examined some antecedent pre-marital correlates to marital
stability: a case study of woman in Federal College of Education Kano. The aim of the study
was to determine the relationship between the time of marriage and marital satisfaction.
Based on data analysis, the result of the study showed that age at marriage, graduation and
establishment in a vocation before marriage were positively correlate with marital stability.
The level of education attainment of couples determines their success in marriage. For
instance, Renne (2000) postulated that couples that are not educated have more marital
conflict than those educated. Bernard (2000) explain that the proportion of men who have
extra marital relation is more with couples less education than with couples who are highly
educated. Kitson and Sussman (2002) in their own age in marriage and stability discovered
that couples who have married longer complained of changes in interests and values, as the
reason why they have problems in their marriage relationship.
Aron (2001) investigate the occupational correlates of marital dysfunction among

dual-earner couples in Enugu state. The study is a correlation survey. The study revealed that
compels in Enugu state experience marital dysfunction in the area of children, finance
14
psychological sphere and inter-personal relationship. The couples experience or no sex
related and social problem. All occupation variables jointly are statistically significant
predictor of marital dysfunction experienced by couples. The study agreed that occupation
status is a factors in marital disharmony but did not consider other variables as a correlates to
marital conflict, hence the present research
2.6 Summary of Literature Review
The researchers were able to review related works to the present study. From the review, a
number of issues raised which led to discovering of the gap to be filled by the present study.
The literature revealed that marital conflict is marital disruption. Low marital quality and
frequent desertion. Which affect the stability of marriage? A number of theories of marital
conflicts were reviewed equally. Such theories are the role of model theory and the marital
communication theory. It was discovered that all the theories are very appropriate in
understanding marital conflict.
It was revealed in the literature that marital conflicts are caused by issues of status,
childlessness, religion, finance, parents, in-law, and extravagance, negligence of roles, extra-
marital affairs, and inappropriate communication among others. The literature reviewed also
provided an insight into strategies that has been adopted in conflict resolution in marriage.
Such strategies like counseling, the use on kinsmen, proper role definition, faithfulness, and
communication among others have been opined by scholars to have been used in resolving
marital conflict by married people.
Although, the literature revealed the strategies for resolving marital conflicts, it did not reveal
if such personal factors are gender, educational qualifications, age, occupational status and
length of marriage etc are dependent on marital conflict resolution strategies among married
people. Also, the review could not find any empirical work done in plateau state on the
relationship between personal factors and marital conflict resolution strategies among married
people. It is this gap that this study is set to fill.
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CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
This chapter is a presentation of the method that was used for the study. The chapter presents
the research design.
3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN
The design of this is a correlation survey. Correlation survey according to Ali (2006) is a
relationship between two variables in which the index showing the degree of relationship
between the two variables is called correlation co-efficient (r). The precise quantitative value
of correlation helps the researchers to know whether variations in one set of scores lead to
variations in another corresponding set of scores, and to what extend this variation takes
place. As a correlation study, the researchers investigated the extent to which personal factors
such as gender, age, length of marriage, educational qualification and occupational status
relate with conflict resolution strategies of married people in Jos South LGA. As a survey, it
looked at the strategies been employed by married people in resolving marital conflict and
their effectiveness. However, the researcher would carry out this work under the following
headings: population and sample, sampling technique, the research instrument, validity and
reliability of the instrument, method of date collection as well as method of date analysis.
3.2 Population and sample
16
3.2.1 Population
The population for the study consisted of all married people in all the six district of Jos South
Local Government Area of Plateau State. The population is estimated at 126,749 couples
(source 2006 census raw data). The study relied on the population data as a base for carrying
out the study. This was because there is no other available realistic statistics for the
researchers to ascertain the population figure.
3.2.2 Sample
A sample is part of the target population that has procedurally been selected to represent it.
According to Mwanse, Dalong, Mazadu, Zuhumben (2012), sample is a subset or portion of
the research population selected to be studied rather than studying the whole population of
180 married people adequately represented the target population.
3.3 Sampling Technique
Sample random sampling was used to select 180 respondents comprising of 90 married and
90vmarried females. The randomly selected district include: Garram, Kabwir, and Amper
districts. A 17 items questionnaire was developed from research questions to obtain date for
study.
3.4 Instrument for Data Collection
The research instrument used for this study was a questionnaire designed by the researchers.
The instrument was divided into two major parts: 1 and 2. Part 1 of the instrument sought
information relating to respondents personal factors such as gender, age, education. Length of
marriage, occupational status, religious and tribe. Also part 2 of the instrument consisted of
three sections designed to assess the following: personal factors and causes of marital
conflict, the strategies being employed by married people in resolving marital conflict and the
extent of effectiveness of the identified strategies.
Each section has items related to these research questions. To determine the respondents
strategies in resolving marital conflicts, five response options ranging from strongly Agree
(SA), Agree( A), Disagree (D), strongly Disagree(SD) and undecided (UD), where specified
against each item and weight as 5,4,3,2,1 respectively. The respondents were required to
indicate whether they are making use of the items or not.
3.5 Validity and Reliability of the Instrument
17
3.5.1 Validity
Validity of a research instrument refers to the extent to which it measures what it is supposed
to measure (Maree, 2007: 13). There are a number of different types of validity, namely. Face
validity, content validity, construct validity and criterion
Validity. Content validity will be suitable for this research study. To ensure the content
validity of an instrument, the researchers presented the instrument to the supervisor for
comments before preparing the instrument for data collection. The purpose of the exercise is
to identify whether the developed instruments or items used really agreed with the contents of
the research questions and where they did not well completely probe the ramification of the
study or where the concept are not well understood, the researcher have no modify such
before carrying out the main/final study.
3.5.2 Reliability
Reliability is the extent to which a measuring instrument is repeatable and consistent (Boyce
and Neale, 2006). The following are the different types of reliability. They are test- retest
reliability, equivalent form from reliability, split-half reliability and internal reliability.
Internal reliability was the best type of reliability for this research work in the sense that,
when a number of items are formulated to measure a certain construct, there should be a high
degree of similarity among them since they are supposed to measure one common construct.
A measure of this degree is similarly is an indication of the internal consistency or reliability
of the instrument.
3.6 Method of Data Collection
The researcher employed the services of one research assistant in the six communities in the
administration of the questionnaire. These research assistant were thoroughly educated on
what to do which centered on how to locate the respondents and administer the questionnaire.
He was equally advised to allow the respondents a day to complete the questionnaire. The
rationale for allowing them a day was to guard against some of the subjects complaining of
lack of time for filling the questionnaire. The completed copies of the questionnaire were
retrieved from the research assistant two weeks after the questionnaire had been issued to
them.
18
3.7 Method of Data Analysis
The researcher used percentage to analyze the personal information of the respondents. To
answer the research questions, frequency counts was used.
Simple percentage formula:
Percentage (%) = NR x 100

TNR 1
Where NR = Number of Responses
TNR = Total Number of Respondents.
CHAPTER FOUR
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This chapter deals with the data collected for this research work and the model to be used.
Presentations were made in tables, analyses using simple percentage. As stated in the
previous chapter, the sample size was 180 respondents and questionnaires were prepared
accordingly.
4.1 BIO-DATA FOR THE RESPONDENTS
Table 1: Frequency Distribution According to Gender
Gender Frequency Percentage (%)

Male 101 56.11
Female 79 43.89
Total 180 100%
Table 1 shows that 101 respondents representing 56.11% were male whereas 79 respondents
representing 43.89% were female. The statistical data shows that the majority were male who
dominated the research.
Table 2: Distribution according to the Age
19
Age Frequency Percentage (%)
20-30 Years 55 30.56
31-40 Years 67 37.22
41-50 Years 32 17.78
51 years and above 26 14.44
Total 180 100%
Table 2 shows that 55 respondents representing 30.56% and were from the age range 20-30
years, 67 respondents presenting 37.22% were from the age range 31-40 years, 32
respondents representing 17.78% were from the age range 41-50 years and 26 respondents
representing 14.44 were from the age range 51 years and above.
This shows that all ages of maturity were represented.
Table 3: Distribution according to the length of marriage
Length of Marriage Frequency Percentage (%)

1 Years 29 16.11
2 Years 33 18.33
3 Years 26 14.44
4 Years 40 22.22
5 Years and above 52 28.89
Total 180 100%
Table 3 reveals that 29 respondents representing 16.11% had their marriage length as 1 year,
33 respondents representing 18.33% had 2 years married life, 26 respondents representing
14.44% had 3 years married life, 40 respondents representing 22.22% had 4 years while 52
respondents presenting 28.89% stayed in their marriage for the period of 5 years and above.
This shows that all the married couples were represented.
Table 4: Distribution according to the educational qualification
Qualification Frequency Percentage (%)

Literate 129 71.67
20
Non-Literate 51 28.33
Total 180 100%
Table 4 shows that 129 respondents representing 71.67% were literate while 51 respondents
representing 28.33% were non-literate. This shows that the literate and non-literate were
represented.
Table 5: Distribution according to occupation
Occupation Frequency Percentage (%)

Working Class 137 76.11
Non-Working Class and 43 23.89
Business
Total 180 100%
Table 5 shows that 137 respondents representing 76.11% were working class while 43
respondents representing 23.89% were non-working class and Business. This shows that all
categories of work is represented.
Table 6: Distribution according to religion
Religion Frequency Percentage (%)

Christian 133 73.89
Islam 31 17.22
Traditional 16 8.89
Table 6 reveals that 133 respondents representing 73.89% were Christians, 37 respondents
representing 17.22% were Muslims while 16 respondents representing 8.89% were traditional
worshipers. This shows that all the three main religion in Nigeria were represented.
Table 7: Distribution according to tribe
Tribe Frequency Percentage (%)

Ngas 80 44.44
Tarok 34 18.89
Igbo 18 10
21
Hausa 35 19.44
Berom 13 7.22
Total 180 100%
Table 7 indicates that 80 respondents representing 44.44% are Ngas by Tribe, 34 respondents
representing 18.89% were Tarok, 18 respondents representing 10% were Igbo by Tribe, 35
respondents representing 19.44% were Hausa while 13 respondents representing 7.22% are
Berom by tribe. This shows that a few of the Nigerian Tribe were represented
4.2 ANALYSIS OF RESEARCH QUESTION
Question 1: Use of Past mistakes by a partner can cause marital conflict
Responses Frequency Percentage (%)

Agreed 142 78.89%
Disagreed 25 13.89
Undecided 13 7.22%
Total 180 100%
The table above shows that 142 respondents representing 79.89% agreed that use of past
mistakes by a partner can cause marital conflict, 25. Respondents representing 13.89%
disagreed with the statement while 13 respondents representing 7.22% were undecided. This
shows majority of the respondents agreed with the statement which said “Use of past
mistakes by a partner can cause marital conflict”.
Question 2: Wrong postures such like, this is the way I am, my partner had better get
used to me, etc can cause marital conflict

Agreed 135 75
22
Disagreed 24 13.33
Undecided 21 11.67
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 135 respondents representing 75% agreed that wrong posture
such like this is the way I am, my partner had better get used to me, etc can cause marital
conflict, 24 respondents representing 13.33% disagreed with the statement of the respondents
agreed with the statement which said “wrong postures such like, this is the way I am, my
partner had better get used to me, etc can cause marital conflict”
Question 3: I am the man of the house can cause marital conflict

Agreed 130 72.22
Disagreed 33 18.33
Undecided 17 9.44
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 130 respondent representing 72.22% agreed that I am the man of
the house can cause marital conflict, 33 respondents representing 18.33% disagreed with the
statement while 17 respondents representing 9.44% were undecided. This shows majority of
the respondents agreed with the statement which said “I am the man of the house which
causes marital conflict. This finding is in line with Okoye (2003), in Igbo land, men claim to
assume absolute power in the house without giving a little chance for a woman to exercise
their rights. Men are said to be those who build, and bring in this wives, therefore, whatever
they say is final. Women who are educated seem not to confound to this ideology as a result,
misunderstanding occurs in the house where conflict is inevitable.
Question 4: Poverty is not a factor for marital conflict in marriage
23
Agreed 25 13.89
Disagreed 138 76.67
Undecided 17 9.44
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 25 respondents representing 13.89% agreed that poverty is not a
factor for marital conflict in marriage, 138 respondents representing 76.67% disagreed with
the statement while 17 respondents representing 9.44% were undecided. This shows majority
of the respondents disagreed with the statement which said “Poverty is not a factor for marital
conflict”. This finding is in line with Onyechi (2003) who contends that there is a significant
relationship between money management and family stability. Onyechi further agreed in-law
disturbance when there is lack and influence of poverty are major factors that cause marital
conflicts in most couples.
Question 5: Unwillingness to acknowledge mistakes cannot cause marital conflict

Agreed 10 5.56
Disagreed 139 77.22
Undecided 31 17.22
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 10 respondents representing 5.56% agreed that unwillingness to
knowledge mistakes cannot cause marital conflict, 139 representing 77.22% disagreed with
the statement while 31 respondents representing 17.22% were undecided. This shows
majority of the respondents disagreed with the statement which said “unwillingness to
acknowledge mistakes cannot cause marital conflict”. This finding is in line with Kiston &
Sussman (2002) who Concorde that partners who stands on right usually influence marital
conflict. This is because, such person hardly admit his area of weakness or fault so as to
allow peace to rein.
Question 6: Educational level of partner and bragging of status can cause marital
conflict.
Responses Frequency Percentage
24
Agreed 128 71.11%
Disagreed 38 21.11%
Undecided 14 7.78%
Total 180 100%
The table above shows that 128 respondents representing 71.11% agreed that educational
level of partner and bragging of status can causes marital conflict, 38 respondents
representing 21.11% disagreed with the statement while 14 respondents reprensenting 7.78%
were undecided. This shows majority of the respondent agreed with the statement which said
“educational level of partner and bragging of status can cause marital conflict. This finding is
in with Ocho (2006) who found that educational qualification, age of marriage causes conflict
in marriage, age of marriage and management level of couples are the major problem facing
married men and women.
Question 7: When conflicts ensue in our marriage we talk in over for clarity
Responses Frequency Percentage

Agreed 99 55%
Disagreed 51 28.33%
Undecided 30 16.67%
Total 180 100%
The table above shows that 99 respondents representing 55% agreed that when conflicts
ensue in our marriage we talk it over for clarity can resolve marital conflict, 51 respondents
representing 28.33% disagreed with the statement while 30 respondents representing 16.67%
were undecided. This shows majority of the respondents agreed with the statement which said
“when conflicts in our marriage we talk for clarity can resolve marital conflict. This finding is
in line with Nweke (2009) who blamed causes of marital conflicts on husbands with wives as
a result of inability to settle issues within their circumference. When a man or woman is able
to explain in detail the reason of displaying such an attitude or behaviour, it makes them not
to develop grudges at each other.
25
Question 8: When Conflicts Ensue we always adopt flexibility when considering
solutions

Agreed 118 65.56
Disagreed 42 23.33
Undecided 20 11.11
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 118 respondents representing 65.56% agreed that when conflicts
ensue we always adopt flexibility when considering solutions can resolve marital conflict, 42
respondents representing 23.33% disagreed with the statement while 20 respondents
representing 11.11% were undecided. This shows majority of the respondents agreed with the
statement which said “When conflict ensue we always adopt flexibility when considering
solutions”. This is in line with the finding of Aremu (2011) who posited that marital conflict
is resolved when the two partners create a conducive environment of understanding.
Question 9: We consult a family/marital counsellor to help in resolving conflict in our

troubled marriage

Agreed 137 76.11
Disagreed 28 15.56
Undecided 15 8.33
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 137 respondents representing 76.11% agreed that they consult a
family/marital counsellor to help in resolving conflict in their troubled marriage, 28
respondents representing 15.56% disagreed with the statement while 15 respondents
representing 8.33% were undecided. This shows majority of the respondents agreed with the
statement which said “They consult a family/marital counsellor to help in resolving conflict
in their troubled marriage”. This finding is in line with Adeloye (2003) who asserted that
counselling is an indispensable tool in which create a conducive environment for husband
26
and wife to live together especially when there exists marital crisis between them. Couples
that pay regular visit to counsellors for help usually have less marital conflict.
Question 10: Extended family members are consulted in conflict situation

Agreed 19 10.5
Disagreed 94 52.22
Undecided 69 37.22
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 19 respondents representing 10.56% agreed that extended family
members are consulted in conflict situation, 94 respondents representing 52.22% disagreed
with the statement while 67 respondents representing 37.22% were undecided. This shows
majority of the respondents agreed with the statement which said “extended family members
are consulted in conflict situation”, this finding is in line with Anuka (2007) agreed that
couples take marital conflicts to their family for solution. Although, it is not in all causes that
both the nuclear or large family are informed of the crisis being faced by the partners. This is
because trivial issues are discussed among couples while unsolved conflicts are taken to
presents for further counselling.
Question 11: The use of personality options (Transparent) cannot help in resolving
conflict

Agreed 11 6.11
Disagreed 112 62.22
Undecided 57 31.67
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 11 respondents representing 6.11% agreed that the use of
personality options (Transparent) cannot help in resolving conflict, 112 respondent
were undecided. This shows majority of the respondents disagreed with the statement which
said “the use of personality options (transparent) cannot help in resolving conflict”. This
27
finding is in with Ishaya (2006) who maintained that transparency in marriage is the key to
maintaining cordial relationship. When partners possess the characteristic of openness, it
makes them to resolve conflict that may arise.
Question 12: Avoiding over expectation from each other helps in conflict resolution

Agreed 147 81.67
Disagreed 20 11.11
Undecided 13 7.22
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 147 respondents representing 81.67% agreed that avoiding over
expectation from each other helps in conflict resolution, 20 respondents representing 11.11%
shows majority of the respondents agreed with the statement which said “Avoiding over
expectation from each other helps in conflict resolution”. This finding is in line with
Olusanya (2000) who affirmed that too much of expectation on a partner leads to conflict
therefore partner especially the woman should avoid much expectation from the husband.
This will enable them to maintain a happy and stable home.
Question 13: When I talk over the conflict issue with my partner it helps in resolving
our conflict.

Agreed 136 75.56
Disagreed 29 16.11
Undecided 15 8.33
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 136 respondents representing 75.56% agreed that when they talk
over the conflict issue with their partner it helps in resolving their conflict, 29 respondents
representing 16.11% disagreed with the statement while 15 respondents representing 8.33
“when they talk over the conflict issue with their partner it helps in resolving their conflict”.
This finding is in line with what Saxton (2002) quoted as deliberation and discussion as the
key element to resolving a marital crisis. Saxton further narrated that when couples imbibe
28
the spirit of discussing related conflict with one another, it makes them to resolve what would
have metamorphose to divorce or separation.
Question 14: Adopting Flexibility when considering solutions in a conflict situation

helps

Agreed 144 80
Disagreed 24 13.33
Undecided 12 6.67
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 144 respondents representing 80% agreed that adopting flexibility
when considering solutions in a conflict situation helps, 24 respondents representing 13.33%
shows majority of the respondents agreed with the statement which said “Adopting flexibility
when considering solutions in a conflict situation help”. This finding is in line with Saxton
(2002) who further posited that simple method of communication is straight way of helping
partners solve their marital problems. Non-use of protocols by the partners has been found as
key way in which couples can live together.
Question 15: The use of professional helper like family/marital counsellor helps in
conflict resolution

Agreed 127 70.56
Disagreed 39 21.67
Undecided 14 7.78
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 127 respondents representing 70.56% agreed that the use of
professional helper like family/marital counsellor helps in conflict resolution, 39 respondents
where undecided. This shows majority of the respondents agreed with the statement which
said “the use of professional helper like family/marital counsellor helps in conflict
resolution”. This finding is in line with Omojola (2008) who advised married men/women on
how to deal with issues affecting their marriage. He advised that experts and those who have
29
experiences in marriage can be consulted on how to handle marital conflict. This is because
most of them have passed through such challenges.
Question 16: Performance based treatment, which is personal involvement enhances

conflict resolution

Agreed 150 83.33
Disagreed 18 10
Undecided 12 6.67
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 150 respondents representing 83.33% agreed that performance
based treatment, which is personal involvement enhances conflict resolution, 18 respondents
representing 10% disagreed with the statement while 12 respondents representing 6.67%
“Performance based treatment, which is personal involvement enhances conflict resolution”.
This finding is in line with Omojola (2008) that, initiative and creativity can enable married
people to live together. In addition, the finding of Ojugo (2004) agreed that the utilization or
approaches in conflict situation is dependent on the personality of the individual concerned.
Question 17: Consulting immediate family members in conflict situation enhances

conflict resolution

Agreed 123 68.33
Disagreed 40 22.22
Undecided 17 9.44
Total 180 100
The table above shows that 123 respondents representing 68.33% agreed that consulting
immediate family members in conflict situation enhances conflict resolution, 40 respondents
where undecided. This shows majority of the respondents agreed with the statement which
said “Consulting immediate family members in conflict situation enhances conflict
30
resolution”. This finding is in line with Anuka (2007) who said that immediate family
comprising of father, mother and father/father in-laws are the basic family members that
should be consulted for a marital conflict resolution.
4.3 DISCUSSION OF FINDING
Use of past mistakes by a partner can cause marital conflict. This finding is in line
with Agupugo (2008) who maintained that couples that remind their partners of their
previous errors in live time create a trouble in the marital affairs. Couples have been fighting
among themselves as a result their partners reminding them of their past.
Wrong postures such like, this is the way I am, my partner had better get used to me, etc can
cause marital conflict. This finding is in line with Ifezue (2000) asserted that there are many
ways that lead to marital conflict which a partner who claims to hold absolute authority, in
the name of I remain who I am, power is in my hand as long as you are under me. Etc. this
brings in marital conflict among couples.
I am the man of the man of the house can cause marital conflict. This finding is in line with
Okoye (2003), in Igbo land, men claim to assume absolute power in the house without giving
a little chance for a woman to exercise their rights. Men are said to be those who build, and
bring in their wives, therefore, whatever they say is final. Women who are educated seem not
to confound to this ideology as a result, misunderstanding occurs in the house where conflict
is inevitable.
Poverty is not a factor for marital conflict in marriage. This finding is in line with Onyechi
(2003) who contends that there is a significant relationship between money management and
family stability. Onyechi. Onyechi further agreed in-law disturbance when there is lack and
influence of poverty are major factors that cause marital conflicts in most couples.
Unwillingness to acknowledge mistakes cannot cause marital conflict. This finding is in line
with Kiston & Sussman (2002) who concorded that partners who stands on rights usually
influence marital conflict. This is because, such person hardly admit his area of weakness or
fault so as to allow peace to rein.
Educational level of partner and bragging of status can cause marital conflict. This finding is
in line with Ocho (2006) who found that educational qualification, age of marriage causes
conflict in marriage. Ocho agreed that variables such as educational qualifications, types of
31
marriage, age of marriage and management level of couples are the major problem facing
married men and woman.
When conflicts ensue in our marriage we talk it over for clarity can resolve marital conflict.
This finding is in line with Nweke (2009) who blamed causes of marital conflicts on
husbands with wives as a result of inability to settle issues within their circumference. When
a man or woman is able to explain in detail the reason of displaying such an attitude or
behaviour, it makes them not to develop grudges at each other.
When conflicts ensue we always adopt flexibility when considering solutions can resolve
marital conflict. This is in line with the finding of Aremu (2011) who posited that marital
conflict is resolved when the two partners create a conducive environment of understanding.
We consult a family/marital counsellor to help in resolving conflict in our troubled marriage.

This finding is in line with Adeloye (2003) who asserted that counselling is an indispensable
tool in which create a conducive environment for husband and wife to live together especially
when there exists marital crisis between them. Couples that pay regular visit to counsellors
for help usually have less marital conflict.
Extended family members are consulted in conflict situation. This finding is in line with
family Anuka (2007) agreed that couples take marital conflicts to their family for solution.
Although, it is not in all cases that both the nuclear or large family are informed of the crisis
being faced by the partners. This is because trivial issues are discussed among couples while
unsolved conflicts are taken to parents for further counselling.
The use of personality options (Transparent) cannot help in resolving conflict. This finding is
in line with Ishaya (2006) who maintained that transparency in marriage is the key to
maintaining cordial relationship. When partners possess the characteristic of openness, it
makes them to resolve conflict that may arise.
Avoiding over expectation from each other helps in conflict resolution. This finding is in line
with Olusanya (2000) who affirmed that too much of expectations on a partner leads to
conflict therefore partner especially the woman should avoid much expectation from the
husband. This will enable them to maintain a happy and stable home.
When I talk over the conflict issue with my partner it helps in resolving our conflict. This
finding is in line with Saxton (2002) quoted as deliberation and discussion as the key element
to resolving a marital crisis. Saxton further narrated that when couples imbibe the spirit of
32
discussing related conflict with one another, it makes them to resolve what would have
metamorphose to divorce or separation.
Adopting flexibility when considering solutions in a conflict situation helps. This finding is in
line with Saxton (2002) who further posited that simple method of communication is straight
way of helping partners solve their marital problems. Non-use of protocols by the partners
has been found as key ways in which couples can live together.
The use of professional helper like family/marital counsellor helps in conflict resolution. This
finding is in line with Omojola (2008) who advise married men/women on how to deal with
issues affecting their marriage. He advised that experts and those who have experience in
marriage can be consulted on how to handle marital conflict. This is because most of them
have passed through such challenges.
Performance based treatment, which is personal involvement enhances conflict resolution.

This finding is in line with Omojola (2008) that, initiatives and creativity can enable married
people to living together. In addition, the finding of Ojugo (2004) agreed that the utilization
or approaches in conflict situation is dependent on the personality of the individual
concerned.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION, RECOMMENDATIONS AND SUGGESTIONS FOR

FURTHER STUDIES
5.1 Summary
The research work aimed at investigating the personal Factors and Marital Conflict
Resolution Strategies Among Peoples in Jos South Local Government Area of Plateau State.
The data collected through questionnaires were analysed and discussed. To carry out this
research work successfully, three research questions were formulated and purpose of the
study were also stated. One hundred and eighty (180) respondents were involved in the study
through random sampling technique to answer the structured questionnaire. The purpose of
chapter 4 was to discuss the data collected from the questionnaires correctly completed by
180 respondents and to offer comments and interpretations on the findings. At the outset, an
explanations and description was provided as to the methods in the categorisation of the
33
responses and the analysis of the data. Calculating the data, percentage was used in
interpreting the reach questions. The following were the summary of the findings.
i. The findings revealed the following as the causes of marital conflict among married
people: Use of past mistakes against the partner, wrong postures, I am the man of the
house, poverty, unwillingness to acknowledge mistakes and educational level of
partner.
ii. The findings further revealed the strategies of resolving marital conflicts as when
conflicts ensure in marriage, one need to talk it over for clarity, always adopt
flexibility, consulting of family counsellor, the use of transparency skill and avoiding
over expectation from one partner.
iii. The finding disagreed that extended family members are not to be involved in conflict
resolution.
iv. The findings showed the effectiveness of the strategies in resolving marital conflict. It
revealed that when one talk over the conflict issue, it prevents it from escalating,
adopting flexibility strategies, the use of professional helper, personal involvement
and consulting immediate family when the situation is out of hand.
5.2 Conclusion
On the basis of the above findings, the following conclusion were drawn, marital conflict
resolution strategies being employed by married people are talking over the conflict,
consulting family/marital counsellor, use of performance based treatment, consulting
extended family members, avoidance of negative factors, use of personality options as being
empathic, flexible, and transparent, the use of character options as honesty, assertiveness,
forgiveness and clear role definition. The identified marital conflict resolution strategies are
effective for them. Personal factors such as gender, age, length of marriage, educational
qualification and occupational status are significantly related to marital conflict resolution
strategies as seen from the personal data.
5.3 Recommendations
The following recommendation were made based on the finding and conclusions of the stuy:
34
1. There is need for counsellor to create awareness for married people on available
conflict resolution strategies. This awareness can be during pre-marital education and
through seminars, workshops.
2. In view of the need for creating awareness on the available conflict resolution
strategies, there is need for collaborative effects as it is involving. The government,
Churches, NGOs and social clubs team up in realization of the above objectives.
3. Counselling centres aimed at helping married couples in conflict situation should be
established in our different communities by the government. The idea of seeing
counselling service as associated to student’s growth should be disabused to allow for
full patronage.
4. In view of the findings that educational qualification and occupational status as a
factor correlate with conflict resolution strategies, it is recommended that government
should implement free education for girl-child to university level. This will prevent
many marriages from conflict and eventual collapse.
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APPENDIX I
New Life Theological Seminary, Vom
Jos South Local Government Area,
Plateau State,
Nigeria
39
7th June, 2024
Dear Respondent,
The researcher are Diploma Degree in Christian-Ministries students in the above named
Department and Institution. I am conducting a study on the “Personal Factors and Marital
Conflict Resolution Strategies among Married People in Jos South Local Government Area
of Plateau State”. You have been selected as one of the subjects to provide candid opinion to
the issue. The data to be collected will only be used for the study alone and should be treated
with strict confidentiality.
Thanks for your anticipated Cooperation.
Yours faithfully,
Hosea Ibrahim Kakula
SOS/CRS/004
APPENDIX II
QUESTIONNAIRE
Instruction: Tick (√ ¿ any option that represent you.
Section A: Personal Information
i. Gender: Male ( ) Female ( )
40
ii. Age 20-30 years ( ) 31-40 years ( ) 41-50 Years ( ) 51 Years & Above
( )
iii. Length of Marriage: 1 Year ( ) 2 Years ( ) 3 Years ( ) 4 Years ( )
5 and above ( )
iv. Educational Qualification: Literate ( ) Non-Literate ( )
v. Occupation: Working ( ) Non-Working ( )
vi. Religion: ____________________________________________
vii. Tribe: _______________________________________________
Section B: Questionnaire for Married People
Instruction: You are expected to rate this instrument on the four-point rating scales provided
to ensure the extent you agree or disagree with the options in the column that appeals to you.
You are to rate by ticking (√ ) any answer of your choice
The personal factors and causes of marital conflict among married people
S/N Statements SA A D SD UD
1 Use past mistakes by a partner can cause marital
conflict
2 Wrong Postures such like, this is the way I am,
my partner had better get used to me, etc can
cause marital conflict
3 I am the man of the house can cause marital
conflict
4 Poverty is not a factor for marital conflict in
marriage
5 Unwillingness to acknowledge mistakes cannot
cause marital conflict
6 Educational level of partner and bragging of status
can cause marital conflict
Strategies for resolving marital conflicts
7 When conflicts ensue in our marriage we talk it
over for clarity
41
8 When conflicts ensue we always adopt flexibility
when considering solution
9 We consult a family/marital counsellor to help in
resolving conflict in our troubled marriage
10 Extended family members are consulted in
conflict situation
11 The use of personality options (Transparent)
cannot help in resolving conflict
12 Avoiding over expectation from each other helps
in conflict resolution
The effectiveness of the strategies in resolving marital conflict
13 When I talk over the conflict issue with my
partner it helps in resolving our conflict
14 Adopting flexibility when considering solutions in
a conflict situation helps
15 The use of professional helper like family/marital
counsellor helps in conflict resolution
16 Performance based treatment, which is personal
involvement enhances conflict resolution
17 Consulting immediate family members in conflict
situation enhance conflict resolution
42

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CHAPTER ONE

1.1 BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY

1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

In an attempt to resolve marital conflicts, some couples employ different strategies

In addition, strategies used in resolving conflict appear to be predicted on some

1.3 PURPOSE OF THE STUDY

1.5 Significant of the Study

2.1 concept of Marital Conflict

Nweke(2009) blamed causes of marital conflict on husbands while others blamed it on

2.3 Concept of personal factors (Characteristics)

The Marital Communication Theory Model

The marital communication theory model was propounded by Weakland (1956).

When there is such confusion and lack of understanding in the communication

Onuoha (2003) however suggested variable such as communication, commitment, emotional

In another study by Nwakpudolu (1999) on factors in marital disharmony among couples in

McCahan (2003) reported a correlation of 47 between self-concept and marital

Aron (2001) investigate the occupational correlates of marital dysfunction among

2.6 Summary of Literature Review

3.1 RESEARCH DESIGN

3.2 Population and sample

3.3 Sampling Technique

3.4 Instrument for Data Collection

3.5 Validity and Reliability of the Instrument

3.6 Method of Data Collection

Simple percentage formula:

Percentage (%) = NR x 100

Where NR = Number of Responses

TNR = Total Number of Respondents.

RESULTS AND DISCUSSION

4.1 BIO-DATA FOR THE RESPONDENTS

Table 1: Frequency Distribution According to Gender

Gender Frequency Percentage (%)

Table 2: Distribution according to the Age

This shows that all ages of maturity were represented.

Table 3: Distribution according to the length of marriage

Length of Marriage Frequency Percentage (%)

Table 4: Distribution according to the educational qualification

Qualification Frequency Percentage (%)

Table 5: Distribution according to occupation

Occupation Frequency Percentage (%)

Table 6: Distribution according to religion

Religion Frequency Percentage (%)

Table 7: Distribution according to tribe

Tribe Frequency Percentage (%)

4.2 ANALYSIS OF RESEARCH QUESTION

Question 1: Use of Past mistakes by a partner can cause marital conflict

Responses Frequency Percentage (%)

Responses Frequency Percentage (%)

Question 3: I am the man of the house can cause marital conflict

Responses Frequency Percentage (%)

Question 4: Poverty is not a factor for marital conflict in marriage

Responses Frequency Percentage (%)

Question 5: Unwillingness to acknowledge mistakes cannot cause marital conflict

Responses Frequency Percentage (%)

Responses Frequency Percentage

Responses Frequency Percentage

Responses Frequency Percentage (%)

Question 9: We consult a family/marital counsellor to help in resolving conflict in our

Responses Frequency Percentage (%)