Male Chauvinism and Socio-Economic Status as Correlates of Marital Instability among Married Women in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State

The study examined the connection between married women's marital instability, socioeconomic level, and male chauvinism in the city of Port Harcourt, Rivers State. The study used a correlational research design. The study was driven by four research questions and four matching null questions. 9,678 married women from Rivers State's Obio/Akpor and Port Harcourt City Local Government Areas made up the study's population. There were 400 married women in the study's sample. To determine the sample, a fluid survey sampling calculator was utilised. In this investigation, a multistage sampling strategy was used. The study's tool is the "Male Chauvinism, Socio-economic Status and Marital Instability of Married Women Scale," which was created by the researcher (MCSSMIMWS). Three measurement and evaluation specialists validated the instrument and made some adjustments. The instrument's reliability was assessed using a test-retest methodology. The research topics were addressed and the null hypotheses were tested using Pearson Product Moment Correlation. The study's findings showed that among married women in the city of Port Harcourt, marital instability was substantially correlated with male domineering behaviour, male double standards, strict expectations of gender roles, and financial control. The study's findings showed a substantial correlation between marital instability and male domineering behaviour, male double standards, and strict expectations of gender roles and financial management. Based on the findings, the researchers came to the conclusion that among married women in Port Harcourt Metropolis, Rivers State, marital instability was substantially correlated with both male chauvinism and socioeconomic position. In order to address difficulties of domineering behaviour, the researchers suggested, among other things, that members of the Counselling Association of Nigeria (CASSON) set up counselling programs for married couples. In order to promote equality in married relationships, these programs ought to stress the value of respect for one another, clear communication, and shared decision-making.