AN EXAMINATION OF TOXIC FEMINIST RHETORIC AND ITS IMPACT ON RELATIONSHIP COMMITMENT IN NIGERIAN HOUSEHOLDS: A CASE OF LAGOS MATRIMONIAL COUNSELING CENTERS

Background of the Study

The feminist movement, with its advocacy for gender equality, has significantly influenced societal norms and the traditional institution of marriage. However, certain strands of feminism, often labelled as "toxic feminism," promote radical ideologies that reject traditional gender roles and question the validity of conventional family structures. These ideologies have sparked heated debates, particularly within Nigerian society, where marriage and family are considered fundamental to social order and cohesion.

In Lagos, Nigeria’s economic capital, matrimonial counseling centers play a crucial role in helping couples navigate relationship issues, including those related to infidelity, communication breakdown, and marital commitment. The rise of toxic feminist rhetoric, often propagated through social media, online platforms, and by outspoken public figures, has begun to influence the way marital relationships are viewed. This study seeks to examine the extent to which toxic feminist rhetoric affects relationship commitment in Nigerian households, particularly focusing on clients seeking counseling in Lagos matrimonial counseling centers.

 

Statement of the Problem

While the feminist movement has played a pivotal role in advocating for gender equality, some aspects of toxic feminism may have unintended consequences on relationship dynamics. Specifically, the promotion of extreme ideologies that undermine traditional views of marriage and commitment could affect marital stability. This study aims to critically assess how toxic feminist rhetoric, as encountered by couples in Lagos matrimonial counseling centers, influences their perceptions of relationship commitment and the long-term sustainability of marriages.

 

Objectives of the Study

To evaluate how toxic feminist rhetoric impacts perceptions of relationship commitment among couples seeking counseling in Lagos matrimonial centers.

To assess the influence of toxic feminism on the decision-making process regarding marital commitment in Nigerian households.

To explore the broader implications of toxic feminist narratives on the stability and longevity of marriages in Lagos.

 

Research Questions

How does toxic feminist rhetoric affect the views of couples on relationship commitment in Lagos matrimonial counseling centers?

In what ways do couples' perceptions of commitment change as a result of exposure to toxic feminist narratives?

What are the broader societal implications of toxic feminist rhetoric on marital stability in Lagos?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant in that it will provide a nuanced understanding of how radical feminist ideologies influence marital relationships in Nigeria. The research will offer insights for marriage counselors, policymakers, and gender experts in developing strategies to address the challenges posed by toxic feminist rhetoric, particularly in the context of Nigerian family dynamics. Understanding the impact on relationship commitment will help create more effective counseling frameworks that acknowledge the role of contemporary feminist debates.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus specifically on couples in Lagos who seek marital counseling at various matrimonial centers. The research will examine the impact of toxic feminist rhetoric on their perceptions of relationship commitment but will not delve into other aspects of relationship dynamics that may not be influenced by feminist ideologies. The study will be limited to those individuals who actively engage with counseling services and does not include the broader Nigerian population or rural settings.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Toxic feminism: A form of feminism characterized by radical views that reject traditional gender roles and question the institution of marriage and family structures.

Relationship commitment: The emotional, psychological, and legal dedication that partners demonstrate towards sustaining a marriage or long-term partnership.

Matrimonial counseling: Professional therapy or advice aimed at helping couples resolve marital issues and strengthen their relationship.

 

References

Adegbite, S. O. (2020). The influence of feminist ideologies on marital stability in Lagos. Journal of Nigerian Family Studies, 27(2), 143-156. Retrieved from https://www.jnfs.org/feminist-ideologies-marital-stability

Eze, N. K. (2021). Toxic feminism and its impact on relationship dynamics in Nigerian households. Nigerian Journal of Social Psychology, 18(1), 90-102. Retrieved from https://www.njps.org/relationship-commitment