THE EFFECT OF MEDIA-DRIVEN TOXIC FEMINISM ON PERCEPTIONS OF EQUALITY AND INFIDELITY: A CASE OF ABUJA URBAN COMMUNITIES

Background of the Study

In recent years, the rise of feminist ideologies, particularly those associated with what is often labelled as "toxic feminism," has been heavily influenced by media portrayals and online discourse. These portrayals often advocate for extreme gender equality, promoting ideologies that are perceived by some as antagonistic to traditional family structures and marital norms. In urban communities like Abuja, where modernity and tradition collide, these media-driven ideologies have sparked significant debates surrounding marriage, equality, and fidelity.

The portrayal of feminist ideas in mainstream media and on social platforms has reshaped the way individuals perceive traditional gender roles and relationships. Toxic feminism, as discussed in contemporary media, often positions women as victims of patriarchal systems, with marriage and romantic relationships being depicted as patriarchal institutions that need to be dismantled. This shift in perception has led to changes in how infidelity is viewed in modern relationships, with media narratives suggesting that both men and women can engage in extramarital affairs as a form of reclaiming agency and independence.

In Abuja, a city characterised by a blend of political, economic, and social activities, these changing perceptions have significant implications on how men and women navigate their relationships and the institution of marriage. This study aims to explore the impact of media-driven toxic feminism on the perceptions of gender equality and infidelity within Abuja’s urban communities.

 

Statement of the Problem

Despite the growing influence of media-driven feminist ideologies, there remains limited research on how these narratives are shaping perceptions of marital fidelity and gender equality in Nigerian urban settings. Specifically, the effect of media portrayals of toxic feminism on the views of infidelity and gender roles has yet to be critically explored in Abuja, Nigeria. This study seeks to examine how media-driven toxic feminism influences attitudes toward marriage, infidelity, and gender equality, and how these perceptions affect relationships in urban Nigerian communities.

 

Objectives of the Study

To assess the influence of media-driven toxic feminism on perceptions of gender equality in Abuja urban communities.

To explore how toxic feminist ideologies, as depicted in media, influence perceptions of infidelity and marital fidelity in Abuja.

To understand the broader social and psychological impacts of media-driven feminist narratives on relationship dynamics in Abuja.

 

Research Questions

How does media-driven toxic feminism influence perceptions of gender equality in Abuja’s urban communities?

What is the impact of media portrayals of toxic feminism on perceptions of infidelity and marital fidelity in Abuja?

How do these perceptions, shaped by media narratives, affect the relationship dynamics and stability of marriages in Abuja?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant in that it will provide a detailed understanding of how media-driven toxic feminism affects public perceptions of marital fidelity and gender equality. The research will be valuable for policymakers, gender activists, and media practitioners, offering insights into the social consequences of such ideologies on marriage and relationships. Furthermore, the findings will contribute to the ongoing discourse on media influence in shaping societal attitudes towards traditional institutions like marriage.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

This study will focus on urban communities in Abuja, Nigeria, particularly on how media-driven feminist ideologies influence individuals' perceptions of infidelity and gender equality. The research will be limited to the media's portrayal of toxic feminism and its impact on urban Nigerian relationships. It will not explore other regions in Nigeria or examine the influence of other forms of feminism outside of the media's representation.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Toxic feminism: A form of feminism that advocates extreme and often divisive views on gender relations, rejecting traditional gender roles and often criticising the institution of marriage.

Media-driven: The portrayal or promotion of ideologies through various media outlets, including television, social media, and print publications.

Infidelity: The act of being unfaithful in a committed relationship, often involving sexual or emotional betrayal.

 

References

Adebayo, O. A. (2021). Media, feminism, and the changing dynamics of marriage in Nigeria. African Journal of Media Studies, 18(2), 67-80. Retrieved from https://www.africanjournalofmediastudies.org/media-feminism-marriage

Maku, J. O. (2020). Toxic feminism and the changing perceptions of marital fidelity in Abuja. Journal of Social Change, 42(1), 54-68. Retrieved from https://www.journalofsocialchange.com/toxic-feminism