Abstract

This study examined domestic openness and conflict resolution strategies among married couples in Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. Specifically, the study investigated the relationship between domestic openness and negotiation strategy, as well as compromise strategy, among married couples. Two research questions and two corresponding hypotheses guided the study. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised married couples in selected communities within Ikot Ekpene Local Government Area. A sample of 150 respondents was selected using a simple random sampling technique, while 146 completed questionnaires were validly retrieved and used for analysis. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire titled Domestic Openness and Conflict Resolution Strategies Questionnaire (DOCRSQ). The instrument was validated by experts in measurement and evaluation, and its reliability was established using the test–retest method. Data were analyzed using frequency counts, percentages, and the Chi square statistical technique at the 0.05 level of significance.

The findings revealed that a majority of respondents agreed that domestic openness enhances negotiation and compromise strategies among married couples. Chi square analysis showed a significant relationship between domestic openness and negotiation strategy (χ² = 170.493, p = .000), as well as a significant relationship between domestic openness and compromise strategy (χ² = 205.611, p = .000). The study concluded that domestic openness plays a crucial role in promoting effective conflict resolution among married couples by enhancing their ability to negotiate and compromise during disagreements. However, the findings also indicated that openness alone may not always guarantee compromise, as other sociocultural and personal factors may influence conflict resolution behavior. The study recommended that married couples be encouraged to maintain open communication in their relationships, while marriage counsellors and religious leaders should organize programs aimed at improving communication and conflict management skills among couples.

Keywords: Domestic openness, Conflict resolution, Negotiation strategy, Compromise strategy, Married couples, Ikot Ekpene, Marital communication

https://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.21215121

Authors:

Enobong Etim Iton
Department of Sociology and
Anthropology, Faculty of Social
Sciences
University of Uyo, Nigeria.
ORCID: 0009-0001-4122-2393

Nkereuwem Udom
Department of Sociology and
Anthropology, Faculty of Social
Sciences
University of Uyo, Nigeria.
Email:
nkereuwemudom@uniuyo.edu.ng
ORCID: 0009-0006-3355-0289