A CRITICAL ANALYSIS OF FEMINIST ENTITLEMENT AND ITS RELATIONSHIP WITH MARITAL DISSOLUTION: A STUDY OF SOCIAL TRENDS IN ENUGU

Background of the Study

Feminist entitlement refers to a strand of feminist thought that emphasizes the inherent rights of women to autonomy, equality, and freedom in all aspects of life, including within marriage. This perspective often advocates for the dismantling of traditional gender roles and challenges the societal expectations that women must remain in unhappy or oppressive marriages. While feminist entitlement has contributed to empowering women, it has also been linked to an increase in marital dissolution, particularly in contexts where women assert their independence and refuse to conform to traditional marital expectations.

Enugu, a prominent city in southeastern Nigeria, offers a unique case study to explore the relationship between feminist entitlement and marital dissolution trends. As the urbanization process continues and social attitudes evolve, there is a growing intersection between feminist discourses and the changing dynamics of marriage. This study will critically analyze how feminist entitlement ideologies contribute to marital dissolution in Enugu, focusing on the social trends that reflect shifting perceptions of marriage and gender roles.

 

Statement of the Problem

While feminist entitlement has been credited with promoting gender equality and women’s autonomy, its potential impact on marital stability has not been sufficiently explored. This study aims to investigate how feminist entitlement ideologies, particularly in Enugu, correlate with the rising trend of marital dissolution. The study will explore whether the advocacy for women’s rights and independence contributes to an increase in divorce rates or changing marital norms in Enugu.

 

Objectives of the Study

To analyze how feminist entitlement ideologies influence perceptions of marriage and marital commitment in Enugu.

To assess the impact of feminist entitlement on marital dissolution rates in Enugu.

To explore the social and cultural factors that mediate the relationship between feminist entitlement and marital dissolution in Enugu.

 

Research Questions

How does feminist entitlement influence perceptions of marital commitment and stability in Enugu?

What role does feminist entitlement play in the rising trend of marital dissolution in Enugu?

How do social and cultural factors in Enugu mediate the effects of feminist entitlement on marital dissolution?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant because it provides insights into the effects of feminist entitlement on marital dissolution trends in Enugu. By examining how feminist ideologies influence attitudes toward marriage and marital commitment, the research will contribute to the understanding of how gender equality movements impact family structures. The findings will be useful for marriage counselors, policymakers, and gender researchers working to understand the social consequences of feminist ideologies on Nigerian marriages.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on Enugu, particularly exploring how feminist entitlement ideologies influence marital dissolution trends in urban communities. It will not address rural areas or other regions outside Enugu. The research will focus on social trends and perceptions rather than the legal or economic aspects of marital dissolution.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Feminist entitlement: A form of feminism that emphasizes women’s rights to autonomy, equality, and independence, often advocating for radical changes in traditional gender roles and marital expectations.

Marital dissolution: The legal or social end of a marriage, often resulting in divorce or separation.

Social trends: Patterns or shifts in societal behavior, norms, and values, particularly regarding marriage, family life, and gender roles.

 

References

Okafor, C. F. (2021). Feminist entitlement and marital dissolution in Enugu: A critical analysis. Journal of Nigerian Social Trends, 17(2), 54-67. Retrieved from https://www.jnst.org/feminist-entitlement-marital-dissolution

Olamide, T. A. (2020). Feminism and the rise of marital dissolution in Enugu: A social perspective. Journal of African Gender Studies, 21(1), 80-92. Retrieved from https://www.jags.org/feminism-marital-dissolution