1. THE ROLE OF SIDE-CHICKS IN MARITAL CONFLICTS: A STUDY OF URBAN NIGERIAN FAMILIES

 

Background of the Study

The institution of marriage in Nigeria, like many other parts of the world, is undergoing significant changes due to social, cultural, and economic factors. One of the most pressing issues that has emerged in recent years is the phenomenon of infidelity within marriages, often involving third parties commonly referred to as "side-chicks." In urban Nigerian families, marital conflicts exacerbated by the involvement of side-chicks have become a prominent subject of concern. This study aims to explore the role of side-chicks in marital conflicts in Nigerian urban settings, where cultural norms and modernity intersect, often resulting in complex relationship dynamics.

Recent studies have shown that infidelity has deep psychological and social implications for both the person committing the act and their spouse. In Nigeria, where marriage is seen as a sacred institution, the involvement of third parties often leads to emotional distress, legal disputes, and family disintegration. The introduction of side-chicks into marital relationships has not only caused emotional trauma but also raised questions about societal expectations, gender roles, and individual autonomy within marriage.

The role of side-chicks in marital conflict is multifaceted. Their involvement can stem from various reasons, including the desire for emotional or financial fulfilment, or simply as a result of societal pressures that normalise extramarital relationships. The existence of this dynamic contributes to escalating marital conflicts, which may manifest as emotional, financial, or physical abuse, ultimately affecting the well-being of the entire family unit.

 

Statement of the Problem

While the concept of side-chicks has become a recurring topic in Nigerian society, there is a lack of comprehensive studies addressing their role in marital conflicts within the context of urban Nigerian families. This research seeks to fill this gap by critically examining how side-chicks influence the dynamics of marital disputes, the emotional and psychological consequences on the spouses, and the broader impact on family structures. The study will also explore how urbanisation, socioeconomic factors, and evolving gender norms contribute to the increasing prevalence of extramarital relationships involving side-chicks.

 

Objectives of the Study

To examine the factors that contribute to the involvement of side-chicks in marital conflicts within urban Nigerian families.

To assess the psychological and emotional impact of side-chicks on both the primary spouses and the family unit.

To explore societal attitudes and cultural perceptions surrounding the involvement of side-chicks in marital relationships in urban Nigeria.

 

Research Questions

What are the underlying factors that contribute to the involvement of side-chicks in marital conflicts in urban Nigerian families?

How does the presence of a side-chick affect the emotional and psychological well-being of the primary spouses in these families?

What are the societal justifications and cultural perceptions of side-chick relationships in Nigerian urban society?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it will provide insights into the complex issue of marital infidelity in Nigerian urban families. Understanding the role of side-chicks in marital conflicts will help mental health professionals, family counsellors, and policymakers better address the emotional and psychological impact on spouses, as well as develop interventions to prevent or mitigate the effects of such conflicts. Furthermore, the research will contribute to the growing body of literature on infidelity and its societal implications in the Nigerian context.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on urban Nigerian families, specifically those residing in major metropolitan areas such as Lagos, Abuja, and Port Harcourt. These areas represent a cross-section of Nigerian society where urbanisation and modernity have significantly influenced marital dynamics. The study will be limited to exploring the role of side-chicks in marital conflicts and may not fully address other forms of infidelity or the experiences of rural Nigerian families.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Side-chick: A term used to describe a woman involved in a sexual relationship with a married man, often in secret and outside of the man's primary marriage.

Marital conflict: A state of discord or disagreement between married partners, often triggered by infidelity or other relationship issues.

Urban Nigerian families: Families living in major Nigerian cities, characterised by modern lifestyles and socio-economic dynamics.

 

References

Adebayo, S. (2018). The dynamics of marital conflict in urban Nigerian families. Nigerian Journal of Social Studies, 23(4), 54-67.

Ezeani, E. (2017). Side-chicks and their impact on marriages in Nigerian urban areas. Journal of African Family Studies, 45(1), 92-103. Retrieved from https://www.jafs.org/side-chicks-nigeria