A STUDY ON THE CULTURAL SHIFT FROM TRADITIONAL MARRIAGE VALUES TO TOXIC FEMINIST IDEOLOGIES: A CASE OF ENUGU COMMUNITY PRACTICES

Background of the Study

Nigeria, like many societies, has historically adhered to strong traditional marriage values, where gender roles, marital fidelity, and family responsibilities are clearly defined. These values have been deeply rooted in cultural norms and societal expectations, particularly in communities such as Enugu, where tradition plays a significant role in social life. However, the rise of feminist ideologies, particularly toxic feminism, has increasingly challenged these traditional values by advocating for radical changes in gender relations and family structures. Toxic feminism rejects conventional family norms, particularly those related to marriage, and promotes individual autonomy, often at the expense of traditional marital fidelity and roles.

In Enugu, a city with a rich cultural heritage, this shift in values has created a cultural clash, especially as younger generations become exposed to global feminist ideas. This study seeks to investigate the cultural shift from traditional marriage values to toxic feminist ideologies within Enugu’s community practices, examining how these ideologies have influenced local perceptions of marriage, gender roles, and family structures.

 

Statement of the Problem

While feminist ideologies have been instrumental in advocating for gender equality, their radical offshoots, particularly toxic feminism, have led to the questioning of traditional marriage values. The specific impact of this shift on marriage and family dynamics in Enugu has not been thoroughly examined. This study will explore how toxic feminist ideologies challenge traditional marital values in Enugu, focusing on the cultural ramifications and the evolving social attitudes toward marriage.

 

Objectives of the Study

To explore the cultural shift in Enugu from traditional marriage values to the adoption of toxic feminist ideologies.

To assess how this shift influences local perceptions of marital roles, fidelity, and family structures.

To understand the broader social implications of this cultural change on marriage and family life in Enugu.

 

Research Questions

How have toxic feminist ideologies influenced the shift from traditional marriage values in Enugu?

What impact has this cultural shift had on local perceptions of marital roles and fidelity in Enugu?

How do the adoption of feminist ideologies and the rejection of traditional values affect family structures in Enugu?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant because it addresses the cultural transformation occurring in Enugu regarding marriage and family life. By exploring the shift from traditional values to the influence of toxic feminist ideologies, the research will provide insights into how these ideologies affect societal norms in Nigeria. The findings will be useful for policymakers, cultural analysts, and social workers working to understand the intersection of feminism, culture, and family dynamics.

 

Scope and Limitation of the Study

The study will focus on Enugu and will examine the cultural shift from traditional marriage values to toxic feminist ideologies. It will not address other Nigerian regions or rural areas. The study will focus on community perceptions and practices but will not explore the experiences of individuals or the legal aspects of marriage in Enugu.

 

Operational Definition of Terms

Toxic feminism: A radical form of feminism that rejects traditional gender roles and family structures, often advocating for extreme gender equality and individual autonomy.

Traditional marriage values: The cultural norms and practices that define the roles of men and women within marriage, emphasizing gender complementarity, fidelity, and family responsibility.

Family structures: The organizational patterns within families, including roles, responsibilities, and relationships, which are influenced by cultural norms and societal expectations.

 

References

Olufemi, R. T. (2021). Cultural shift and the impact of toxic feminism on marriage in Enugu. Journal of African Social Transformation, 15(2), 72-85. Retrieved from https://www.jast.org/cultural-shift-toxic-feminism-marriage

Nwachukwu, D. E. (2020). The influence of toxic feminism on traditional marriage values in Enugu. Nigerian Journal of Cultural Studies, 18(1), 101-115. Retrieved from https://www.njcs.org/shift-traditional-marriage-values