AN EXAMINATION OF TOXIC FEMINIST THOUGHT AND ITS CORRELATION WITH DECLINING MARRIAGE COMMITMENT: A CASE OF LAGOS MATRIMONIAL COUNSELING CENTERS

Background of the Study

Toxic feminism, often characterised by radical ideologies that reject traditional gender roles and family structures, has increasingly influenced the discourse on gender equality in Nigerian society. While feminist movements have historically fought for women's rights, toxic feminism pushes for a complete overhaul of patriarchal structures, questioning the validity of traditional relationships, including marriage. This radical approach has raised concerns, particularly in urban settings such as Lagos, where changing social norms, economic independence, and gender expectations intersect.

Matrimonial counseling centers in Lagos have become critical spaces for addressing marital issues such as infidelity, communication breakdown, and commitment problems. However, the impact of toxic feminist ideologies on marriage commitment has yet to be critically examined in these counseling contexts. This study aims to explore the correlation between toxic feminist thought and declining marriage commitment, using Lagos matrimonial counseling centers as a case study.

 

Statement of the Problem

While feminist ideologies have contributed to the promotion of gender equality, the rise of toxic feminism and its impact on marital commitment remains an underexplored issue in the context of Nigerian marriages. This study seeks to examine how toxic feminist ideologies, particularly in Lagos, may contribute to the decline in marriage commitment and increase in marital instability. The findings will help understand whether these ideologies challenge the traditional values that uphold marital commitment in Nigerian society.

 

Objectives of the Study

To explore the influence of toxic feminist ideologies on marriage commitment in Lagos.

To assess how matrimonial counseling centers in Lagos address the impact of toxic feminist thought on marital stability.

To evaluate the role of toxic feminist discourse in the declining commitment to marriage in Lagos.

 

Research Questions

How do toxic feminist ideologies affect the perception of marriage commitment among individuals seeking counseling in Lagos matrimonial centers?

What impact does toxic feminist thought have on marital stability and commitment in Lagos?

How do matrimonial counseling centers in Lagos address the challenges posed by toxic feminist ideologies?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant as it will provide valuable insights into the role of toxic feminist thought in reshaping attitudes toward marriage commitment. By focusing on matrimonial counseling centers in Lagos, this research will help counselors, social workers, and policymakers better understand how radical feminist ideologies influence marital relationships. The findings will also contribute to the broader discourse on gender equality and family life in modern Nigerian society.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

This study will focus on Lagos matrimonial counseling centers and how they address the impact of toxic feminist thought on marriage commitment. The research will be limited to counseling contexts and will not delve into other forms of marital advice or community-based support systems. The study will also focus on individuals seeking counseling, not the broader public’s perceptions of toxic feminism.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Toxic feminism: A form of feminism that promotes extreme, often divisive views on gender relations, advocating for radical changes in societal structures, including the rejection of traditional marriage and family norms.

Marriage commitment: The emotional, psychological, and legal dedication to maintaining a marriage, characterized by mutual respect, trust, and shared responsibilities.

Matrimonial counseling: Professional services that assist couples in resolving conflicts, improving communication, and strengthening their marriage.

 

References

Adebayo, S. O. (2021). Toxic feminism and marriage commitment in Lagos: A case study of matrimonial counseling centers. Nigerian Journal of Family and Relationship Studies, 15(2), 121-134. Retrieved from https://www.njfrs.org/toxic-feminism-marriage-commitment

Eze, N. O. (2020). Feminist ideologies and their impact on marital stability in Lagos. African Journal of Family Therapy, 22(1), 56-68. Retrieved from https://www.ajft.org/feminism-marital-commitment