Sociological Analysis of Marriage and Divorce in Christ Apostolic Church Oke Isegun Zonal Headquarters, Moniya, Ibadan
CHAPTER ONE
OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY
The objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive sociological analysis of marriage and divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), with the following specific aims:
- To Identify Factors Influencing Marital Dynamics
- Investigate the underlying reasons for marital breakdown and divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church.
- To Assess the adequacy and effectiveness of existing support services and pastoral interventions for couples experiencing marital difficulties or contemplating divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church
- To evaluate the effectiveness of church policies and interventions aimed at promoting healthy marriages and reducing the incidence of divorce
CHAPTER TWO
LITERATURE REVIEW
HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF MARRIAGE
Marriage, as a social institution, has a rich and varied history that spans across different cultures and epochs. It is fundamentally a legally or formally recognized union of individuals, often characterized by mutual rights and obligations towards each other and society.
In ancient civilizations, marriage was often a strategic alliance between families rather than a personal relationship based on love or companionship. In ancient Mesopotamia, marriage contracts were common, detailing the rights and duties of each spouse . Similarly, in ancient Egypt, marriage was seen as a vital part of societal stability, with legal documents formalizing the union and protecting property rights
During the Classical period, marriage continued to serve as a critical social institution. In ancient Greece, marriage was primarily about producing legitimate heirs and maintaining family lineage. Women were often married off at a young age, and their primary role was to manage the household and bear children . In Rome, marriage was similarly viewed as a means to ensure the continuity of family and social order. Roman law codified marriage practices, and the paterfamilias (male head of the family) had significant control over the marital decisions of family members .
In medieval Europe, the Catholic Church began to exert considerable influence over marriage, transforming it into a sacrament by the 12th century. This period saw the standardization of marriage rituals and the establishment of canon law regulating marital conduct . Marriage during the Middle Ages was often arranged and influenced by economic, political, and social considerations. The concept of marital consent gained importance, although it was largely confined to ensuring that both parties agreed to the union rather than focusing on personal affection .
The Renaissance and Enlightenment periods brought significant changes to the institution of marriage. The Reformation challenged the Catholic Church’s authority over marriage, leading to diverse practices among Protestant communities . The Enlightenment emphasized individual rights and the importance of personal choice in marriage, although economic and social factors remained influential. The rise of companionate marriage, where affection and mutual respect became more central, began to take shape during this time .
In the modern era, marriage has undergone profound transformations. The 19th and 20th centuries witnessed major legal and social changes, including the introduction of civil marriage, the expansion of women’s rights, and the recognition of divorce . The concept of marriage evolved to emphasize personal fulfillment, love, and partnership. In contemporary society, diverse forms of marriage, including same-sex marriage, have gained recognition in many parts of the world, reflecting broader changes in social attitudes and legal frameworks
The historical evolution of marriage illustrates its adaptability and enduring significance across different cultures and time periods. From ancient strategic alliances to modern partnerships based on love and equality, marriage continues to be a fundamental social institution shaping human relationships and societal structures.
CHAPTER THREE
CONCEPTUALIZING MARRIAGE AND DIVORCE
CONCEPTUALIZING FAMILY
The concept of family is a fundamental social unit that varies widely across different cultures, historical periods, and sociological frameworks. Understanding the family involves exploring its definitions, functions, structures, and the roles of its members, as well as how these elements have evolved over time.
The family is typically defined as a group of individuals related by blood, marriage, or adoption who live together and share economic and social responsibilities. However, this definition can be expanded to include various forms of cohabitation and social bonds that resemble traditional family structures.
- Functionalist Perspective: This view sees the family as a social institution that performs essential functions for society, such as socializing children, providing emotional support, and contributing to social stability. Talcott Parsons, a prominent functionalist, emphasized the role of the nuclear family in industrial societies, highlighting its functions in stabilizing adult personalities and socializing the next generation .
- Conflict Theory: This perspective focuses on the power dynamics within the family and how it contributes to social inequality. Feminist scholars, for instance, have analyzed how traditional family structures perpetuate gender roles and patriarchy, often leading to the oppression of women and children .
- Symbolic Interactionism: This approach examines the daily interactions and meanings that family members create and share. It emphasizes the subjective experiences and the ways in which family roles and relationships are negotiated and constructed through communication and social interaction .
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of one hundred and twenty (120) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which one hundred and nine (109) were returned while one hundred (100) were validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 100 was validated for the analysis.
CHAPTER FIVE
DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS, SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS:
DISCUSION OF FINDING
The first question asked the factors Influencing Marital Dynamics.
From table 4.3 above, 60% of the respondents said yes, 22% of the respondents said no, while the remaining 18% of the respondents were undecided. This proved point that there are factors the influence marital dynamics like Communication Patterns, Conflict Resolution Skills, Emotional Intelligence, Shared Values and Beliefs etc. this finding aligned with the study of (Gottman & Notarius, 2000) that says Effective communication is a cornerstone of a healthy marriage. Couples who engage in open, honest, and respectful communication tend to have higher levels of marital satisfaction and stability. Conversely, poor communication, characterized by criticism, contempt, defensiveness, and stonewalling, can lead to conflict and dissatisfaction. Communication styles and patterns play a crucial role in how couples resolve conflicts and navigate challenges in their relationship.
Question 2 asked the reasons for marital breakdown and divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church. From table 4.4 above, 56% of the respondents said yes, 22% of the respondents said no, while the remaining 22% of the respondents were undecided. Unrealistic Expectations, Infidelity, Lack of Intimacy, financial stress etc are the major reason for marital breakdown and divorce within the church. This corresponded with the study of (Lund, 2012) that says Many couples enter marriage with unrealistic expectations about marital life, believing that shared faith will automatically guarantee a harmonious relationship. However, when faced with the realities of marital challenges, these unmet expectations can lead to disappointment and dissatisfaction. The idealization of marriage within the church can create pressure and unmet expectations, contributing to marital strain.
In question 3 that asked the adequacy and effectiveness of existing support services and pastoral interventions for couples experiencing marital difficulties or contemplating divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church. From table 4.5, 48% of the respondents said yes, 23% of the respondents said no, while the remaining 29% of the respondents were undecided. This indicated that there is adequate and effectiveness of existing support services and pastoral interventions for couples experiencing. Marital difficulties and the contemplation of divorce present significant challenges for couples, necessitating effective support services and pastoral interventions. The church, as a faith-based institution, often plays a crucial role in providing this support. The adequacy and effectiveness of these services can greatly influence the outcomes for struggling couples. This also aligned with the study of (Doehring, 2014) that says Pastoral counseling is a primary support service offered by many churches. It involves trained clergy providing spiritual and emotional guidance to couples facing marital issues. Studies have shown that pastoral counseling can be effective in addressing marital conflicts, enhancing communication, and providing spiritual support. However, the effectiveness of pastoral counseling often depends on the training and experience of the clergy. While some pastors are well-equipped with counseling skills, others may lack the necessary training, leading to variability in the quality of care (Rose, 2005)
That last question asked the effectiveness of church policies and interventions aimed at promoting healthy marriages and reducing the incidence of divorce. From table 4.6, 50% of the respondents said yes, 25% of the respondents said no, while the remaining 25% of the respondents were undecided. This affirmed there is effectiveness of church policies and interventions aimed at promoting healthy marriages and reducing the incidence of divorce. The church plays a pivotal role in providing support services and pastoral interventions for couples experiencing marital difficulties. While existing services such as pastoral counseling, marriage enrichment programs, support groups, premarital counseling, and referrals to professional services have shown effectiveness, there is room for improvement in training, accessibility, resource allocation, and the development of tailored interventions. By addressing these areas, the church can better support couples in building strong, resilient marriages.
SUMMARY OF THE STUDY
In this study, our focus was on the sociological analysis of marriage and divorce in Christ Apostolic church in Oke Isegun headquarters. The study is was specifically set to outline place of church on marriage and divorce.
The study adopted the survey research design and randomly enrolled participants in the study. A total of 100 responses were validated from the enrolled participants where all respondent is Christ Apostolic church in Oke Isegun headquarters.
CONCLUSION
The sociological analysis of marriage and divorce in the Christ Apostolic Church at Oke Isegun Headquarters has provided deep insights into the factors influencing marital stability and breakdown within this religious community. The study has highlighted the critical roles of communication, financial stability, emotional intimacy, and shared values in maintaining marital harmony. Additionally, it has underscored the impact of infidelity, mental health issues, and unrealistic marital expectations as significant contributors to marital discord and divorce.
Pastoral interventions and church-based support services play an essential role in addressing marital issues within this community. While these services offer substantial support, their effectiveness is often hampered by limitations such as inadequate training for pastoral counselors, stigma associated with seeking help, and limited resources. There is a clear need for more comprehensive, accessible, and tailored support mechanisms to better serve the marital needs of church members.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the findings of this study, the following recommendations are proposed to enhance the effectiveness of marital support services and reduce the incidence of divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church at Oke Isegun Headquarters:
- Provide ongoing training and professional development for pastoral counselors to equip them with modern counseling techniques and deeper understanding of marital issues.
- Make premarital counseling mandatory for all couples intending to marry within the church. The curriculum should cover communication skills, conflict resolution, financial planning, and intimacy.
- Organize regular marriage enrichment programs, such as workshops, retreats, and seminars, that focus on strengthening marital bonds and addressing common marital issues.
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- Parsons, Talcott, and Robert F. Bales. Family, Socialization and Interaction Process. Routledge, 1955.
- Becker, Gary S. A Treatise on the Family. Harvard University Press, 1981.
- Waite, Linda J., and Maggie Gallagher. The Case for Marriage: Why Married People Are Happier, Healthier, and Better Off Financially.
- Broadway Books, 2000. Giddens, Anthony. The Transformation of Intimacy: Sexuality, Love, and Eroticism in Modern Societies. Stanford University Press, 1992.
- Coontz, Stephanie. Marriage, a History: How Love Conquered Marriage. Penguin Books, 2005.
- Cherlin, Andrew J. The Marriage-Go-Round: The State of Marriage and the Family in America Today. Knopf, 2009.
- Macionis, John J., and Nijole V. Benokraitis. Sociology of Families. Prentice Hall, 2017. Stone, Lawrence. The Family, Sex and Marriage in England 1500-1800.
- Harper & Row, 1977. Hull, Kathleen E. Same-Sex Marriage: The Cultural Politics of Love and Law. Cambridge University Press, 2006.
