Values Orientation and Marital Satisfaction among Married Persons in Delta State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study titled "Values Orientation and Marital Satisfaction among Married Persons in Delta State, Nigeria" explores the relationship between value orientation, relational attachment, forgiveness, and marital satisfaction among married individuals in Delta State. The specific objectives of the research were to examine the relationship between various value orientations, relational attachment components, and forgiveness dimensions with marital satisfaction. A correlational research design was used, enabling the investigation of these variables without manipulation, providing insights into their natural interactions. The population comprised 967,693 married individuals across Delta State's three senatorial districts: Delta Central, Delta South, and Delta North. A sample of 900 married persons was selected through a multistage sampling technique. The sample was stratified by senatorial districts, and participants were chosen using a snowball sampling method. Data collection was done via a structured questionnaire that measured values orientation, relational attachment, forgiveness, and marital satisfaction. The questionnaire was validated through face validity and factor analysis, with Cronbach Alpha reliability coefficients of 0.885 for the Values Orientation Scale, 0.781 for the Forgiveness Scale, and 0.815 for the Marital Satisfaction Scale. The data were analyzed using Pearson's correlation, multiple correlation, and the coefficient of determination. Findings showed a negative relationship between status values consciousness, societal values consciousness, family values, money values, and religious values with marital satisfaction, suggesting that external pressures can diminish marital fulfilment. Relational attachment and its components (relational anxiety, dependency, and closeness) were positively correlated with marital satisfaction, implying that emotional connection and mutual reliance are key to a satisfying marriage. Additionally, forgiveness, particularly conditional forgiveness, positively impacted marital satisfaction, while self-forgiveness showed no significant effect. The study concluded that prioritizing external values negatively affects marital satisfaction, while emotional closeness, mutual dependence, and forgiveness within the relationship enhance marital harmony. Recommendations include promoting workshops that focus on relational dynamics, strategies for managing relational attachment, and training on effective forgiveness practices to enhance marital satisfaction.