THE EFFECT OF TOXIC FEMINIST IDEOLOGY ON GENDER ROLE EXPECTATIONS AND MARITAL FIDELITY: A CASE STUDY OF ABUJA YOUTH

Background of the Study

Toxic feminism, characterized by radical feminist ideologies that reject traditional gender roles and family structures, has increasingly influenced societal views on relationships, gender roles, and marital fidelity. In Abuja, the political capital of Nigeria, the youth represent a dynamic and evolving group exposed to global feminist discourses through social media, education, and cultural exchanges. These ideologies challenge conventional views of marriage, gender roles, and fidelity, often advocating for women’s autonomy and equality, sometimes at the cost of traditional marital structures.

This study aims to explore how toxic feminist ideologies affect the gender role expectations and perceptions of marital fidelity among the youth in Abuja. By focusing on a demographic that is heavily influenced by both traditional Nigerian values and modern feminist ideas, this research seeks to understand how these competing influences shape attitudes toward marriage and fidelity.

 

Statement of the Problem

While toxic feminism has been linked to the transformation of gender expectations and marital dynamics, its impact on the youth in Abuja has not been fully explored. This study will investigate how toxic feminist ideologies influence young people’s expectations of gender roles and their perceptions of marital fidelity. The findings will contribute to understanding how modern feminist ideologies are challenging or reinforcing traditional family structures, particularly in the context of marriage.

 

Objectives of the Study

To examine the influence of toxic feminist ideologies on gender role expectations among the youth in Abuja.

To assess how toxic feminism affects perceptions of marital fidelity among young people in Abuja.

To explore the social and cultural factors that mediate the impact of toxic feminism on marriage and fidelity among Abuja youth.

 

Research Questions

How do toxic feminist ideologies influence gender role expectations among the youth in Abuja?

What impact does toxic feminism have on perceptions of marital fidelity among young people in Abuja?

How do societal and cultural factors in Abuja shape the acceptance of toxic feminist ideologies and their impact on marital expectations?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it provides insights into how toxic feminist ideologies are reshaping gender expectations and marital fidelity among the youth in Abuja, a city at the forefront of Nigeria’s socio-political and cultural transformations. The findings will be valuable for educators, social researchers, and policymakers seeking to understand the evolving views on marriage and family life in modern Nigerian society.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

This study will focus on the youth demographic in Abuja, specifically examining how toxic feminist ideologies influence their perceptions of gender roles and marital fidelity. The research will be limited to the views of young people aged 18-35 and will not examine older generations or rural populations. It will also not delve into the legal or economic implications of these changes in perceptions.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Toxic feminism: A form of feminism that promotes radical views, often rejecting traditional gender roles and advocating for the dismantling of patriarchal structures, particularly in family and marriage.

Gender role expectations: The societal norms and expectations regarding the appropriate behaviors, roles, and responsibilities of individuals based on their gender.

Marital fidelity: The commitment to remain faithful to one’s spouse in a marriage, typically involving sexual and emotional exclusivity.

 

References

Olamide, T. A. (2021). Toxic feminism and its impact on gender role expectations in Abuja’s youth. Journal of Nigerian Youth Studies, 19(3), 102-115. Retrieved from https://www.jnys.org/toxic-feminism-gender-roles

Okeke, C. F. (2020). Feminist ideologies and marital fidelity among young Nigerians. Journal of African Social Studies, 17(2), 70-82. Retrieved from https://www.jass.org/feminism-marital-fidelity