1.1 Introduction
Communication is the process by which individuals exchange information, feelings, and meanings through verbal and non-verbal messages. Effective communication in a marital context involves clear, honest, and empathetic interactions between partners (Burleson, 2010). The stability of marital relationships is a critical area of interest for researchers, therapists, and individuals alike, given its profound impact on personal well-being and societal health. Communication plays a pivotal role in determining the quality and longevity of marital relationships. Effective communication is not only essential for expressing needs and resolving conflicts but also for building emotional intimacy and mutual understanding between partners (Gottman & Silver, 2015).
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
The background of the study on the influence of communication on marital stability among couples lies in the recognition that communication is a foundational element of any intimate relationship. Marital stability, defined as the endurance and quality of the marital relationship over time, is heavily influenced by the ways in which partners communicate with each other (Gottman & Silver, 2015). The exploration of communication's influence on marital stability has a rich history, rooted in the broader field of interpersonal communication and relationship studies. Initially, interest in this area was driven by the observation that communication patterns significantly impact the quality of relationships. Early studies in the mid-20th century began to systematically investigate how different communication styles affect marital satisfaction and longevity.
The development of communication skills training programs in the 1980s and 1990s, such as the Prevention and Relationship Enhancement Program (PREP) by Markman, Stanley, and Blumberg, was a direct application of research findings to practical interventions. These programs were designed to teach couples effective communication strategies to improve their relationships and enhance marital stability (Markman, Stanley, & Blumberg, 2010).
Research in the early 21st century continued to build on these foundations, incorporating insights from psychology, sociology, and neuroscience. Studies began to explore the neurobiological underpinnings of communication and emotional regulation in relationships, providing a deeper understanding of why certain communication patterns are more effective than others (Coan & Sbarra, 2015). The impact of cultural and societal changes on marital communication has also been a significant area of study. Changes in gender roles, increased diversity in family structures, and the influence of technology on communication have all been examined for their effects on marital stability (Cherlin, 2004).
Research has consistently shown that couples who engage in open, honest, and empathetic communication experience higher levels of marital satisfaction and stability (Markman, Stanley, & Blumberg, 2010). On the contrary, poor communication practices, such as avoidance, criticism, defensiveness, and contempt, are significant predictors of marital dissatisfaction and instability (Gottman, 1994). These negative communication patterns can lead to a breakdown in emotional connection and an increase in conflicts, ultimately jeopardizing the stability of the marriage.
Marital instability has been linked with more negativity and less positivity usually as conflicts; negative reciprocity and difficulty getting out of the negative reciprocity cycle and more importantly, for the purpose of this study, non-verbal communication and verbal communication have been observed in unstable marriages. Unhappy couples display, among others, more criticism, dominance and withdrawal, and less support and problem-solving behaviours, and the demand-withdraw pattern of communication has been linked repeatedly to marital dissatisfaction and satisfaction (Lazarides, Belanger & Sabourin, 2010). These same set of people usually are unable to function well in their work places as they carry their marital problems to their work places, constituting a nuisance to their employers. These and many more problems escalate when there is no communication, and many problems are resolved when there is effective communication in a marriage.
It is on this premise that it was thought important by, any successive researchers to investigate the relationship between communication and marital stability, as well as the influence of communication on marital stability. Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the influence of communication on marital stability among couples.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that marital stability is a significant concern in contemporary society, with communication frequently identified as a crucial factor influencing the success or failure of marital relationships. Despite the vast amount of research highlighting the importance of effective communication, many couples continue to struggle with maintaining stable and satisfying marriages due to persistent communication problems. The prevalence of marital dissatisfaction and high divorce rates indicate that ineffective communication remains a pervasive issue.
One of the primary problems is the presence of negative communication patterns, such as criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling, which have been shown to predict marital dissatisfaction and divorce (Gottman, 1994). These destructive communication behaviors can lead to a breakdown in emotional intimacy and trust, further exacerbating marital instability.
Additionally, the lack of communication skills training contributes to the problem. Many couples are not equipped with the necessary skills to navigate conflicts constructively, express their emotions effectively, and engage in active listening. This gap in communication skills often results in unresolved conflicts and escalating tensions, which can undermine the stability of the marriage (Markman, Stanley, & Blumberg, 2010).
Furthermore, empirical studies indicate that there is a need for more targeted research to understand the specific communication challenges faced by diverse groups of couples. Factors such as cultural background, socio-economic status, and individual personality traits can influence communication styles and the effectiveness of different communication strategies (Caughlin & Huston, 2002). It is against the backdrop that this study seeks to address these problems by evaluating the influence of communication on marital stability among couples.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to examine the influence of communication on marital stability among couples. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To explore the impact of negative communication patterns, such as criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling, on marital stability;
- To investigate the role of cultural, social, and technological factors in shaping communication patterns within marital relationships;
- To examine the relationship between communication patterns and marital satisfaction among couples;
- To assess the effectiveness of communication skills training in enhancing marital satisfaction and stability; and
- To provide recommendations for couples, therapists, and educators on how to improve communication in marital relationships to promote stability and satisfaction.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- What specific communication behaviors are most strongly predictive of marital stability or instability?
- In what ways do negative communication patterns, such as criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling, impact marital stability?
- How effective are communication skills training programs in enhancing marital satisfaction and stability?
- How can couples improve their communication to enhance marital stability and satisfaction?
- What role do cultural, social, and technological factors play in shaping communication patterns within marital relationships?
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.
- H01: Couples who exhibit negative communication patterns will report higher levels of marital satisfaction compared to those who exhibit negative communication patterns.
- H02: Negative communication behaviors, such as criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling, will not be significantly associated with lower levels of marital stability.
- H03: Participation in communication skills training programs will not lead to a measurable improvement in marital satisfaction and stability among couples
1.7 Significance of Study
The outcome of this research will significantly benefit therapists and counselors by providing them with critical insights into the factors that contribute to marital satisfaction and stability. This will enable them to develop more effective intervention strategies tailored to improving communication skills in couples.
For couples themselves, understanding the impact of communication will enhance their ability to resolve conflicts constructively and build stronger, more resilient relationships. This will lead to improved relationship satisfaction and a greater sense of stability in their marriages.
More so, educational institutions and marriage enrichment programs will find value in this research as it will inform the development of curricula and workshops focused on enhancing communication skills. This will support couples in developing healthier communication patterns and ultimately strengthen their marital bonds.
Additionally, researchers and academics in the field of relationship studies will gain valuable knowledge about the dynamics of communication and its role in marital stability. This will contribute to the broader understanding of relationship science and guide future research in this area.
Furthermore, policy makers and family support organizations will benefit from this research as it will provide evidence to support the development of programs and policies aimed at promoting effective communication within marriages. This will help in designing initiatives that support marital stability and overall family well-being.
1.8 Scope of Study
The scope of the research is focused on the influence of communication on marital stability among couples in Surulere Local Government Area of Lagos Metropolis.
1.9 Limitations of the Study
Students studying "The Influence of Communication on Marital Stability Among Couples" may face several limitations.
- One challenge is accessing a diverse sample of participants, as students might have limited resources and networks to recruit a representative group of couples. This could affect the generalizability of their findings. Another limitation is the potential for limited experience and expertise in research methodology. Students might struggle with designing comprehensive studies or analyzing complex data, which can impact the quality and reliability of their results.
- Students may also encounter difficulties in obtaining accurate and honest responses from participants. Couples might be reluctant to disclose sensitive information about their communication issues or marital problems, which could lead to incomplete or biased data.
- Additionally, students might face constraints related to time and resources. Conducting in-depth studies on communication and marital stability often requires significant time investment and financial resources, which students might not have at their disposal.
- Finally, students may have limited access to advanced analytical tools or software needed for thorough data analysis. This limitation can affect their ability to conduct sophisticated analyses and draw nuanced conclusions from their research.
1.10 Definition of Terms
Communication:
It is the process by which individuals exchange information, feelings, and meanings through verbal and non-verbal messages. Effective communication in a marital context involves clear, honest, and empathetic interactions between partners (Burleson, 2010).
Marital Stability:
The endurance and health of a marital relationship, often measured by the absence of thoughts or actions towards divorce or separation, and by high levels of marital satisfaction and functioning (Karney & Bradbury, 1995).
Marital Satisfaction:
A subjective evaluation of the overall happiness and contentment one feels in their marriage. It encompasses various dimensions, including emotional fulfillment, sexual satisfaction, and effective conflict resolution (Funk & Rogge, 2007).
Negative Communication Patterns:
It is the destructive communication behaviors that can harm a marital relationship, such as criticism, defensiveness, contempt, and stonewalling. These patterns have been identified as significant predictors of marital dissatisfaction and divorce (Gottman, 1994).
Communication Skills Training:
Programs and interventions designed to improve individuals' ability to communicate effectively. These often include components like active listening, assertiveness training, and conflict resolution strategies (Markman, Stanley, & Blumberg, 2010).
Cultural Factors:
It is the shared values, norms, and practices of a group that influence behaviors and perceptions, including communication styles and marital expectations. Cultural background can significantly affect how couples interact and resolve conflicts (Ting-Toomey & Kurogi, 1998).
Social Factors:
They are elements of the social environment that impact individuals and relationships, such as social support, economic status, and community norms. These factors can influence the stability and dynamics of a marriage (Umberson, Williams, Powers, Liu, & Needham, 2006).
Technological Factors:
It refers to the ways in which modern technology, such as social media and digital communication tools, affects interpersonal interactions and relationships. Technology can both facilitate and hinder effective communication between partners (Hertlein, 2012).
