A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF FEMINIST ENTITLEMENT IDEOLOGIES AND THEIR EFFECT ON MARITAL DISSOLUTION: A STUDY OF LAGOS DIVORCE STATISTICS

Background of the Study

Feminism, in its pursuit of gender equality, has led to significant social changes, particularly concerning the roles of women within marriage and family life. However, one particular strand of feminist discourse, often referred to as "feminist entitlement," has raised questions about its effect on marital dissolution. This ideology promotes the belief that women, in their pursuit of equality and independence, are entitled to certain freedoms and rights, sometimes at the expense of traditional marital obligations and commitments. While such ideologies are aimed at empowering women, they can sometimes challenge the very foundations of marriage, contributing to marital breakdowns and increasing divorce rates.

In Lagos, one of Nigeria’s most populous and diverse cities, divorce rates have been on the rise, particularly among urban couples who are exposed to global feminist ideologies. This study will critically analyze how feminist entitlement ideologies, as seen in Lagos, contribute to marital dissolution, focusing on the statistical trends and societal shifts that may be linked to this growing phenomenon.

 

Statement of the Problem

Although feminist ideologies have helped improve women’s rights and opportunities, the rise of feminist entitlement narratives may be inadvertently contributing to the rising rates of marital dissolution in Lagos. This research aims to investigate the relationship between feminist entitlement ideologies and marital breakdowns, exploring how these ideas challenge traditional marital expectations and contribute to divorce statistics in the city.

 

Objectives of the Study

To examine the relationship between feminist entitlement ideologies and the increase in marital dissolution rates in Lagos.

To assess how feminist entitlement narratives challenge traditional views on marriage and commitment.

To explore the societal implications of feminist entitlement ideologies on family structures and marital stability in Lagos.

 

Research Questions

How do feminist entitlement ideologies contribute to marital dissolution in Lagos?

In what ways do feminist entitlement narratives challenge traditional marital roles and expectations in Nigerian society?

What are the societal impacts of feminist entitlement on marital stability and divorce rates in Lagos?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant because it addresses the growing influence of feminist entitlement ideologies on marital relationships in Lagos, where divorce rates are increasing. By critically examining the effects of these ideologies on marital dissolution, the research will provide insights that can help marriage counselors, family therapists, and policymakers understand the challenges facing modern Nigerian marriages. The findings will also contribute to the broader conversation on the impact of feminist ideologies on traditional family structures.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on divorce cases in Lagos and explore how feminist entitlement ideologies have influenced marital dissolution rates in this urban context. The research will be limited to a sample of individuals seeking divorce in Lagos and will not address the impact of feminist ideologies on marriages in rural areas or outside of Lagos.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Feminist entitlement: A belief within certain feminist circles that women are entitled to freedom and equality in all aspects of life, including marriage, sometimes leading to the rejection of traditional marital duties and obligations.

Marital dissolution: The legal and social process by which a marriage is ended, often culminating in divorce.

Divorce rates: The statistical measurement of the number of divorces that occur within a specific period in a given population.

 

References

Adebayo, R. S. (2020). Feminist entitlement ideologies and their impact on marital dissolution in Lagos. Journal of Nigerian Family and Gender Studies, 18(2), 134-148. Retrieved from https://www.jnfgs.org/feminist-entitlement-marital-dissolution

Okoro, C. M. (2021). The role of feminist ideologies in marital breakdowns: A case study of Lagos divorce statistics. Nigerian Journal of Social Issues, 29(1), 65-79. Retrieved from https://www.njsi.org/feminist-ideologies-marital-breakdowns