Sociological Analysis of Marriage and Divorce in Christ Apostolic Church Oke Isegun Zonal Headquarters, Moniya, Ibadan
Abstract
The study examined the sociological analysis of marriage and divorce in Christ Apostolic Church. The study will be limited to members of Christ Apostolic Church in Oke Isegun Zonal Headquarters. Four research questions were formulated to guide the study. The sample size consisted of 119 members in Christ Apostolic Church in Oke Isegun Zonal Headquarters who were randomly selected. The statistical methods adopted were descriptive statistics. The study concluded that Pastoral interventions and church-based support services play an essential role in addressing marital issues within this community. While these services offer substantial support, their effectiveness is often hampered by limitations such as inadequate training for pastoral counselors, stigma associated with seeking help, and limited resources. There is a clear need for more comprehensive, accessible, and tailored support mechanisms to better serve the marital needs of church members.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
BACKGROUND OF THE STUDY
Marriage and divorce are intricate social phenomena influenced by a myriad of factors including cultural norms, religious beliefs, economic conditions, and legal frameworks. Sociological research on marriage and divorce delves into understanding the complexities of these institutions, shedding light on patterns, causes, and consequences within diverse social contexts.
Sociologists have long been interested in studying marriage as a social institution. Durkheim (1897) viewed marriage as a mechanism for social cohesion, while Parsons (1955) emphasized its role in regulating sexual activity and providing emotional support within the family unit. Contemporary sociologists continue to explore the evolving nature of marriage, considering factors such as gender roles, family dynamics, and societal expectations.
Religion plays a significant role in shaping attitudes towards marriage and divorce in many societies. Stark and Finke (2000) argue that religion provides moral guidelines and social support networks that strengthen marital bonds. Within religious communities, including the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), religious teachings and practices often influence marital decisions and behaviors, highlighting the interplay between faith and family life.
Divorce rates have risen globally, prompting sociologists to examine the underlying causes and consequences of marital dissolution. Giddens (1992) attributes the increase in divorce to changes in gender roles, individualism, and the erosion of traditional social norms. Researchers also explore the impact of divorce on individuals, families, and communities, considering factors such as emotional well-being, economic stability, and social stigma.
Within religious contexts, marriage is often regarded as a sacred covenant, with divorce viewed as a last resort. However, religious teachings and practices vary widely, influencing marital dynamics differently across denominations. Studies have examined the role of religion in promoting marital stability, as well as the challenges faced by couples navigating marital conflicts and divorce within faith communities.
The CAC, a prominent Christian denomination with a strong presence in Nigeria and other parts of the world, holds marriage in high esteem, emphasizing biblical principles of love, fidelity, and mutual respect. However, like many religious groups, the CAC grapples with issues related to marital instability and divorce, prompting the need for sociological inquiry into the factors shaping marital dynamics within the faith community.
In light of these considerations, this study seeks to conduct a sociological analysis of marriage and divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church, aiming to elucidate the cultural, religious, and socio-economic factors influencing marital outcomes, and to provide insights that may inform interventions to support healthy and resilient marriages within the faith community.
STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Marriage and divorce are complex social phenomena that have profound implications for individuals, families, and communities. Within the context of the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), understanding the dynamics of marriage and divorce is essential for addressing various challenges and promoting healthy relationships within the faith community.
Despite the emphasis on the sanctity of marriage within the CAC, there is evidence of marital instability and divorce among church members. Understanding the factors contributing to marital instability is crucial for promoting enduring and fulfilling marriages within the church.
The underlying reasons for divorce within the CAC remain understudied. Exploring the factors contributing to marital breakdown, such as conflicts over religious beliefs, infidelity, economic challenges, and changing gender roles, can provide insights into the root causes of divorce within the faith community.
Divorce can have profound emotional, psychological, and financial consequences for individuals and families within the CAC. Investigating the impact of divorce on the well-being of spouses, children, and extended family members can inform interventions aimed at mitigating the negative effects of marital dissolution.
The intersection of religious beliefs, cultural norms, and legal frameworks surrounding marriage and divorce within the CAC presents unique challenges and opportunities. Understanding how religious teachings, cultural practices, and legal considerations influence marital decisions and outcomes can facilitate the development of culturally sensitive interventions to support couples and families within the faith community.
Assessing the adequacy and effectiveness of existing support services and pastoral interventions for couples experiencing marital difficulties or contemplating divorce within the CAC is essential. Identifying gaps in support services and barriers to accessing pastoral care can guide the development of tailored interventions to promote marital well-being and resilience within the faith community.
In light of these pressing issues, this study seeks to conduct a comprehensive sociological analysis of marriage and divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church, with the aim of identifying factors influencing marital dynamics, understanding the causes and consequences of divorce, and informing evidence-based interventions to support healthy and resilient marriages within the faith community.
OBJECTIVE OF THE STUDY
The objective of this study is to conduct a comprehensive sociological analysis of marriage and divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), with the following specific aims:
- To Identify Factors Influencing Marital Dynamics
- Investigate the underlying reasons for marital breakdown and divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church.
- To Assess the adequacy and effectiveness of existing support services and pastoral interventions for couples experiencing marital difficulties or contemplating divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church
- To evaluate the effectiveness of church policies and interventions aimed at promoting healthy marriages and reducing the incidence of divorce
RESEARCH QUESTIONS
The following research questions are formulated;
- Are there factors Influencing Marital Dynamics?
- Are there reasons for marital breakdown and divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church?
- Are there adequacy and effectiveness of existing support services and pastoral interventions for couples experiencing marital difficulties or contemplating divorce within the Christ Apostolic Church?
- Is there any effectiveness of church policies and interventions aimed at promoting healthy marriages and reducing the incidence of divorce?
SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
This study contributes to the existing body of sociological literature by offering insights into marriage and divorce dynamics within a specific religious context, namely the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). By examining the interplay of cultural, religious, and socio-economic factors influencing marital outcomes within the CAC, this research fills a gap in the literature and expands our understanding of marriage and divorce as social phenomena.
Investigating marriage and divorce within the CAC provides an opportunity to understand how religious teachings, cultural norms, and legal frameworks intersect to shape marital decisions and behaviors. By exploring the role of religion in promoting marital stability and addressing marital challenges, this study sheds light on the complexities of navigating marriage within a religious context.
The findings of this study have practical implications for policymakers, clergy, counselors, and other stakeholders involved in supporting couples and families within the CAC. By identifying factors contributing to marital instability and divorce, as well as gaps in support services and interventions, this research informs the development of evidence-based policies and programs aimed at promoting healthy and resilient marriages within the faith community.
By examining the causes and consequences of divorce within the CAC, this study provides valuable insights for enhancing marital education and counseling services within the faith community. Recommendations based on research findings can help clergy and counselors better address the needs of couples experiencing marital difficulties, facilitate constructive communication, and provide resources for strengthening marital bonds.
Ultimately, this study aims to contribute to the promotion of marital well-being and resilience within the CAC and similar religious contexts. By raising awareness of the challenges faced by couples within the faith community and offering evidence-based strategies for supporting healthy marriages, this research seeks to foster a culture of marital stability, mutual respect, and fulfillment grounded in biblical principles and contemporary realities.
SCOPE OF THE STUDY
The scope of the study covers sociological analysis of marriage and divorce in Christ Apostolic Church. The study will be limited to members of Christ Apostolic Church in Oke Isegun Zonal Headquarters
METHODOLOGY
This study employs content analysis as the primary methodology to analyze sociological aspects of marriage and divorce. Utilize qualitative methods to explore the lived experiences, perceptions, and attitudes of church members towards marriage and divorce. This could involve in-depth interviews and focus group discussions to capture nuanced insights…
LIMITATION OF THE STUDY
Sample Size and Generalizability: One limitation of this study is the potential constraint of a limited sample size, which may impact the generalizability of the findings. The research may focus on a specific geographical area or subgroup within the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC), limiting the ability to draw broad conclusions about marriage and divorce dynamics across the entire denomination or among diverse populations within the faith community.
Reliance on Self-Report Data: The study may rely on self-report data obtained through surveys, interviews, or other methods, which could be subject to response bias, social desirability bias, or inaccuracies in recall. Participants may underreport sensitive issues such as marital conflicts or divorce experiences, leading to incomplete or biased data that may affect the validity and reliability of the findings.
Cross-Sectional Design: The study’s cross-sectional design may limit the ability to establish causal relationships between variables and to capture changes in marital dynamics over time. Longitudinal research designs tracking couples’ experiences over an extended period would provide a more comprehensive understanding of the factors influencing marital stability and divorce within the CAC.
Potential Cultural and Contextual Biases: The study may be conducted within a specific cultural or contextual framework that influences the interpretation of research findings. Cultural biases, language barriers, or differences in social norms between researchers and participants may impact data collection, analysis, and interpretation, potentially limiting the applicability of the findings to other cultural or religious contexts.
REFERENCES
- Lorenz, F. O., Wickrama, K. A. S., Conger, R. D., & Elder, G. H. (2006). “The Short-Term and Decade-Long Effects of Divorce on Women’s Midlife Health.” Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 47(2), 111-125.
- Hughes, R., Jr., & Waite, L. J. (2009). “Marital Biography and Health at Mid-Life.” Journal of Health and Social Behavior, 50(3), 344-358.
- Hetherington, E. M., & Stanley-Hagan, M. (1999). “The Adjustment of Children with Divorced Parents: A Risk and Resiliency Perspective.” Journal of Child Psychology and Psychiatry, 40(1), 129-140.
- McGrath, Alister E. Reformation Thought: An Introduction. Wiley-Blackwell, 2012. Second Vatican Council. Gaudium et Spes. 1965.
- Pope Francis. Amoris Laetitia. Libreria Editrice Vaticana, 2016.
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