AN ASSESSMENT OF FEMINIST DISCOURSE ON EQUALITY AND ITS UNINTENDED CONTRIBUTION TO MARITAL INFIDELITY: A CASE OF ABUJA LEGAL DEBATES

Background of the Study

Feminist discourse on equality has long advocated for the rights of women, particularly in the areas of education, employment, and social status. However, as feminist ideologies evolve, particularly those that challenge traditional gender roles and advocate for sexual freedom, some unintended consequences have emerged in the realm of marriage and family life. The feminist emphasis on equality often advocates for the autonomy of women, which includes their right to make independent choices regarding their relationships, including marital fidelity. This shift in societal norms, particularly within legal and intellectual circles, may unintentionally influence marital dynamics, including contributing to marital infidelity.

In Abuja, the legal community plays a significant role in shaping and interpreting societal norms. Legal debates surrounding gender equality, women's autonomy, and marriage have often been at the forefront of feminist discussions. This study aims to explore how feminist discourses on equality, particularly as discussed in Abuja’s legal debates, have unintentionally contributed to perceptions of marital infidelity. The study will examine whether the legal arguments surrounding women's rights and gender equality have influenced societal expectations of marriage and fidelity.

 

Statement of the Problem

While feminist discourse on equality has been pivotal in promoting women’s rights, its unintended effects on marital fidelity have not been sufficiently studied. This research seeks to explore how feminist discussions on gender equality, particularly in legal debates in Abuja, have contributed to shifting perceptions of marital fidelity and possibly fostering attitudes that tolerate or normalize marital infidelity.

 

Objectives of the Study

To examine the role of feminist discourse on equality in legal debates in Abuja and its impact on perceptions of marital fidelity.

To assess the unintended consequences of feminist ideologies on marital infidelity in the context of Nigerian marriages.

To explore how legal arguments regarding gender equality influence societal norms surrounding marriage and fidelity in Abuja.

 

Research Questions

How does feminist discourse on equality in legal debates in Abuja influence societal views on marital fidelity?

What are the unintended consequences of feminist ideologies on marital infidelity in Abuja's legal and social contexts?

How do legal debates on gender equality shape societal norms around marriage and fidelity in Nigeria?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant because it addresses the often-overlooked unintended consequences of feminist legal debates on marital fidelity. By focusing on Abuja’s legal community, the research will provide valuable insights into how legal discourses shape societal norms and individual behaviors concerning marriage and infidelity. The findings will be beneficial for legal scholars, policymakers, and family counselors in understanding the broader impacts of feminist ideologies on family life.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

This study will focus on feminist discourse on equality within Abuja’s legal debates and how these discussions have influenced perceptions of marital fidelity. The research will be limited to examining legal perspectives and will not address the broader social or cultural factors influencing marital infidelity. The study will not explore rural or non-legal perspectives on the issue.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Feminist discourse on equality: Intellectual discussions and debates advocating for equal rights and opportunities for women, particularly in relation to marriage, sexual freedom, and societal roles.

Marital infidelity: The act of being unfaithful in a marriage, often involving sexual or emotional betrayal of one’s spouse.

Legal debates: Discussions and arguments within the legal community, including judges, lawyers, and academics, concerning societal issues and their implications for law and policy.

 

References

Eze, T. M. (2021). Feminist discourse on equality and marital fidelity in Nigerian legal debates. Journal of African Legal Studies, 20(3), 145-159. Retrieved from https://www.jals.org/feminist-equality-marital-fidelity

Olufemi, C. A. (2020). Gender equality and its unintended impact on marital infidelity: A legal perspective. Nigerian Journal of Family Law, 16(2), 83-95. Retrieved from https://www.njfl.org/gender-equality-marital-infidelity