1.1 Introduction
Childlessness refers to the state in which a married couple is unable to conceive or bear children after engaging in regular unprotected sexual intercourse for an extended period, typically twelve months or more, as described in clinical and demographic studies (Inhorn & Patrizio, 2015). While childlessness may arise from biological, medical or unexplained factors, its meaning and implications extend far beyond the physiological dimension (Dyer, 2007). The socio-cultural importance attached to procreation is evident in traditions that regard children as symbols of lineage continuity, economic security and spiritual fulfillment. Within such contexts, married couples facing childlessness frequently encounter multiple layers of pressure, ranging from personal frustration to social stigma and strained family relationships.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the aim and objectives of the study. Others are significance of the study, scope of work, research hypothesis and questions, limitation of the study and definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
Childlessness has long been recognized as a multidimensional issue that affects individuals, families and communities. According to Inhorn and Patrizio (2015), childlessness extends beyond biomedical explanations to include cultural, social and emotional dimensions that shape how couples experience the absence of children. In many African societies, including Nigeria, fertility occupies a central place in marital expectations and community life. Dyer (2007) asserted that children are widely perceived as symbols of lineage continuity, economic security and social identity, making procreation a fundamental marker of marital fulfillment.
The cultural significance of childbearing establishes a framework through which couples are evaluated within their communities. Hollos and Larsen (2008) reported that societies often regard a childless marriage as incomplete, thereby creating emotional and social pressures that may strain marital relationships. Within these communities, extended family systems and communal networks exert strong expectations on married couples, reinforcing the belief that childbirth is essential for social acceptance and stability. Adeoye and Ola (2020) affirmed that these expectations frequently translate into stigmatization, intrusive inquiries and subtle or direct forms of discrimination faced by couples experiencing childlessness.
Gender dynamics further complicate the socio-cultural landscape surrounding childlessness. In many settings, women are disproportionately blamed for infertility, even when clinical evidence shows that reproductive challenges affect both men and women. Inhorn and Patrizio (2015) contended that gendered assumptions about fertility contribute significantly to the social pressure experienced by childless couples, shaping how communities assign responsibility and interpret the causes of infertility. This gendered burden influences marital interactions, potentially fostering tension, emotional distress and reduced self-esteem.
Additionally, traditional beliefs and cultural interpretations often frame childlessness in spiritual or moral terms. Hollos and Larsen (2008) stated that some communities attribute the inability to conceive to supernatural forces, ancestral displeasure or personal wrongdoing, thereby deepening the social stigma attached to the condition. Limited awareness about reproductive health and restricted access to fertility services further reinforce these misconceptions, creating an environment where childlessness remains misunderstood and highly stigmatized.
The socio-cultural impact of childlessness is therefore profound, affecting marital cohesion, emotional wellbeing and social participation. According to Adeoye and Ola (2020), the experiences of childless couples reflect a combination of societal expectations, cultural beliefs and interpersonal dynamics that shape their daily lives. As communities continue to uphold traditional norms that link marital success to procreation, childlessness becomes a source of social tension and psychological burden for affected couples. This study is set against the backdrop of examining these socio-cultural influences and understanding how childlessness shapes the experiences of married couples within their community context.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that childlessness is a deeply sensitive social and cultural issue that influences the lived experiences of married couples in diverse communities. In many societies, fertility is strongly associated with marital fulfillment, lineage continuity and social acceptance. When conception does not occur, couples often encounter emotional distress, strained relationships and persistent societal expectations that place immense pressure on them. Childlessness is frequently interpreted through cultural lenses that frame fertility as a marker of womanhood or manhood, resulting in stigmatization, exclusion from communal activities and a perceived loss of identity.
Additionally, the experiences of childless couples illustrate that the issue is not only a medical concern but also a socio-cultural challenge that affects psychological wellbeing, marital stability and social participation. Emotional consequences such as depression, anxiety and marital conflict are intensified when extended families impose expectations or assign blame, creating additional barriers to understanding and resolution.
Furthermore, the persistent pressure from society, religious institutions and extended family members is a major problem that shapes the daily experiences of childless couples. Misconceptions about infertility contribute to harmful stereotypes that affect both partners, although women are often disproportionately judged. It is against this backdrop that this study seeks to explore the socio-cultural impact of childlessness on married couples.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of this study is to investigate the socio-cultural impact of childlessness on married couples. The specific objectives of the study are as follows:
- To examine the social and cultural perceptions of childlessness among married couples.
- To determine the psychological and emotional effects of childlessness on couples.
- To assess the role of family and community pressures on childless couples.
- To identify coping strategies adopted by childless couples in response to socio-cultural expectations.
- To recommend measures that will support childless couples within their social and cultural context.
1.5 Research Questions
Based on the stated objectives, the following research questions guide this study on the effects of poor sanitation on public health and the environment:
- What are the social and cultural perceptions of childlessness among married couples?
- What psychological and emotional effects does childlessness have on married couples?
- How do family and community pressures influence the experiences of childless couples?
- What coping strategies do childless couples adopt to deal with socio-cultural expectations?
- What measures will support childless couples within their social and cultural context?
1.6 Research Hypothesis
In order to pursue the objective of this study, the following generalized statements have been designed to guide and aids in obtaining the result for the experiment to be conducted. For this work, the null hypothesis will be represented with H0 while the alternative hypothesis will be represented with hypothesis H1.
Hypothesis One
- H0: There is no significant relationship between socio-cultural expectations and the psychological wellbeing of childless couples.
- H1: There is a significant relationship between socio-cultural expectations and the psychological wellbeing of childless couples.
Hypothesis Two
- H0: Socio-cultural expectations do not significantly affect the psychological wellbeing of childless couples.
- H1: Socio-cultural expectations significantly affect the psychological wellbeing of childless couples.
1.7 Significance of Study
The outcome of this research will inform policymakers, health professionals, social workers, and community leaders on ways to strengthen support systems and promote social inclusion. The study will also help healthcare providers design culturally sensitive reproductive health programs.
Furthermore, the study will help community and religious leaders understand the challenges faced by childless couples and promote more compassionate responses. In addition, the study will help marital counselors and social workers develop support strategies for childless couples.
Lastly, the study will help academics and researchers expand knowledge on the intersection of infertility, culture, and marital wellbeing.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of this study covers married couples in Lagos State who are experiencing childlessness. The focus is on socio-cultural perceptions, psychological effects, family pressures and coping strategies.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, there were some problems encountered which stood as limitations to the research work. Some of the limitations include:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Initial Cooperation Delay from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Childlessness: Refers to the inability of a married couple to conceive or bear children after a period of regular unprotected sexual intercourse, usually defined as twelve months or more (Inhorn & Patrizio, 2015).
Socio-Cultural Impact: Refers to the effects of societal norms, cultural beliefs, and community practices on individuals and families, especially in shaping behaviors, expectations, and social interactions (Adeoye & Ola, 2020).
Married Couples: Individuals legally or traditionally united in marriage, who share responsibilities, social roles, and familial expectations within their community (Dyer, 2007).
Infertility: The biological inability to achieve pregnancy after one year of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse, affecting both men and women (Hollos & Larsen, 2008).
Coping Strategies: Methods and practices adopted by individuals or couples to manage emotional, social, or psychological stress associated with life challenges, including childlessness (Inhorn & Patrizio, 2015).
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