INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XXVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Education
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Marital Factors and Domestic Abuse among Married Female Secondary
School Teachers in Akwa Ibom State.
Elizabeth O. IDOWU (Ph. D), Edidiong Isidore Nyoyoko (Ph. D), Florence Godwin Essien (M.Ed)
Department of Sociological Foundations of Education, University of Uyo.
DOI: https://dx.doi.org/10.47772/IJRISS.2025.903SEDU0732
Received: 16 November 2025; Accepted: 25 November 2025; Published: 12 December 2025
ABSTRACT
This research investigated the influence of marital factors on domestic abuse among married female secondary
school teachers in Akwa Ibom State. The study was guided by three research questions and three corresponding
hypotheses, and it employed an experimental research design. The target population consisted of 3,132 married
female teachers for the 2024/2025 academic session, selected from a total of 7,026 teachers across 274 public
secondary schools in the state. A sample of 346 married female teachers was determined using the Research
Advisors sample size determination table and selected through a stratified random sampling technique. Data
were gathered using a structured instrument titled Marital Factors and Domestic Abuse among Married Female
Teachers Questionnaire. The collected data were analyzed using simple linear regression, and all hypotheses
were tested at the 0.05 level of significance. The results indicated that marital factors have a significant influence
on the incidence of domestic abuse among married female secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State. It
was concluded that married female teachers who exhibit positive marital factors, such as self-control, mutual
respect and integrity, are more likely to maintain peaceful and domestic abuse-free marital relationships.
Consequently, fostering these qualities can contribute to their emotional stability and overall well-being, which
in turn may enhance their professional effectiveness. Recommendations were made that every relationship
requires the ability to manage certain situations either good or bad and spouse should have proper self-control;
respect for each other is not an option but necessary conditions for social existence, and integrity is needed for
marital stability since family stability could predict societal stability.
INTRODUCTION
Domestic abuse is any form of abusive behavior whether physical, emotional, sexual, psychological, or
economic, perpetrated by one partner to control or dominate the other within an intimate relationship (World
Health Organization [WHO], 2021). It is not only a violation of human rights but also a serious social and public
health issue that undermines the wellbeing, productivity, and dignity of victims. According to UN Women
(2023), nearly one-third of women globally have experienced physical and/or sexual domestic abuse from their
partners, and the majority of these cases remain underreported. The effects of domestic abuse extend beyond the
victims to their families, workplaces, and communities, creating ripple effects that hinder social cohesion and
economic productivity.
In educational settings, especially among married female secondary school teachers, such domestic abuse can
lead to absenteeism, poor classroom engagement, diminished motivation, and long-term psychological trauma.
Marital factors play a critical role in shaping the quality and stability of marital relationships. These
characteristics are the behavioral and psychological attributes that define how individuals interact, communicate,
and resolve conflicts in marriage. Scholars have observed that traits such as self-control, mutual respect and
integrity contribute to mutual understanding and peaceful co-existence between couples (Okon & Essien, 2023;
Udo & Bassey, 2022).
Self-control in marriage refers to a person's ability to regulate their emotions, actions and impulses during an
argument in order to maintain peaceful co- existence especially in moments of anger or frustration. A spouse
with good self-controls is less likely to react impulsively or resort to domestic abuse. Self-control is a necessary
characteristic in any successful relationship. It helps individuals to resist their impulses and prevents them from
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XXVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Education
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making decisions or taking actions that would bring regret afterward. Self-control in marital relationship is
necessary because it keeps relationship strong in the face of challenges. When feelings and romantic desire are
involved, couples may act rashly and do things that could hurt one another. Jacobson (2023) argued that during
moments of frustration, anger or hurt, self-control can help a spouse to control his or her emotions without
rendering violent attack on the other partner.
Arinze and Obunadike (2021) studied forgiveness and self-control as predictors of marital satisfaction and
violent-free relationship in colleges of education in Anambra State. Two research questions guided the study.
The study adopted descriptive survey research. The population of the stud comprised of nine hundred married
academic staff of the Federal College Education, Umunze. Purpose sampling technique was used to sample 300
respondents. The questionnaire was the major instrument for data collection and it was validated by three experts
in Home Economics and Measurement and Evaluation. The reliability of the instrument was determined using
Cronbach Alpha which yielded a reliability coefficient of 0.87. Data was analyzed using mean and standard
deviations. One of the study findings revealed that self-control significantly predict violent-free relationship
among spouses.
Cheung, Chiu and Choi (2022) investigated couples’ self-control and marital conflict in Hong Kong, China:
Does similarity, complementarity, or totality matter more? Three research hypotheses were formulated and tested
at .05 level of significance. The study adopted a descriptive research design while the study population comprised
all the eight hundred and seventy-one (871) couples in northwestern district in the study area. A sample size of
89 spouses (male and female) was selected for the study using random sampling method. The participants were
selected for face-to-face interviews in cases of more than one couple living at the same address. Men and women
were interviewed separately in different timeslots or rooms so that their partners did not know what questions
were asked or what answers were given. Response surface analysis method was used for data analysis and the
findings showed that self-control significantly predict marital stability.
Mutual respect in marriage simply means exhibiting behaviours that shows appreciation, consideration and
Value for one’s spouse. It includes using respectful words and avoiding harsh language. When both partners
respect each other’s opinions, feelings, and boundaries, the risk of domestic abuse is significantly lower. Mutual
respect prevents domination, control and abuse, fostering a more peaceful relationship. It also has to do with
respecting the rights and dignity of other people. Spouses are expected to cultivate the habit of mutual respect
so as to have a better family life that it devoid of severe conflict and domestic abuse. Spouses may have different
views, ideas, and needs. Compromising with these differences makes life easier for both partners. Spouses who
respect each other’s differences and do not force each other to change an undesirable aspect of their personality
and resort to compromise lead a better life.
Dixon et al. (2018) investigated the roles of respect for human dignity and parenting practices on and abusive
behavior in United State. Three hypotheses were formulated to serve as a guide to the study. Descriptive research
design was adopted while the population of the study comprised all higher-level students in the study area. A
convenience sample of 133 spouses was selected for the study. Questionnaire was used for data collection while
analyses of covariance and regression was used to test the null hypotheses. The result indicates that observance
of individual rights and dignity by parents significantly prevents physical abuse and other abusive act in
marriage.
Apeh and Bernice (2020) studied the influence of mutual respect on family domestic abuse and other maladaptive
behavior of spouses in Kogi State, Nigeria. Three research questions were raised and one hypothesis formulated
to guide the study. The research design adopted was a descriptive survey. The population of the study comprised
all the married workers in selected parastatals in Kogi State. A sample size of 120 respondents was selected
using stratified random sampling technique. A 24-item questionnaire instrument designed along a modified four-
point rating scale was used for data collection. Test-retest method of reliability was used to ascertain the
reliability of the instrument, with a reliability co-efficient of 8.86 obtained using Pearson Product Moment
Correlation. The statistical tool that was used for data analysis includes mean, standard deviation and linear
regression. One of the major findings revealed that mutual respect minimizes disrespectful behavior, domestic
abuse and other maladaptive behavior of spouses.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XXVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Education
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Integrity in marriage is defined as daily behaviours that shows honesty, commitment and moral responsibility
between partners. Integrity is simplythe practice of being honest and showing a consistent and uncompromising
adherence to strong moral and ethical principles and values in the family (Steve, 2017). In ethics, integrity is
regarded as the honesty and truthfulness or accuracy of one’s actions. Integrity can stand in opposition to deviant
behavior, in that judging with the standards of integrity involves regarding internal consistency as a virtue, and
suggests that parties holding within themselves apparently conflicting values should account for the discrepancy
or alter their belies.
A spouse lacking these qualities may engage in infidelity, deceit, or financial irresponsibility, which can provoke
tension and mistrust (Ekanem, 2022).
Tolorunleke (2014) studied causes of marital conflicts and domestic abuse amongst couples in Ijumu, Kogi
State, Nigeria. Three research questions and two hypotheses were formulated to guide the study. The design
adopted for the study was simple descriptive survey. The population for the study was made up of all married
couples in the area of study. A sample size of 100 husbands and 100 wives making up total of 200 respondents
were selected using purposive sampling method. An adopted structured questionnaire was used for data
collection. The data were organized in tables while analysis of variance was used to test the two hypotheses
postulated for the study at 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that one of the causes of marital
conflict and violent conduct among spouses is their lack of marital integrity.
Josiah and Nteh (2022) investigated factors and consequences of marital conflicts and domestic abuse among
spouses in Rivers State, Nigeria. Four research questions were raised for the study. The study adopted a
descriptive survey design. The total population of the study comprised of couples who experienced conflict and
domestic abuse in their marital home in the study area. A sample size of 120 respondents which comprised of
male and female spouses was selected using simple random sampling technique. The researchers’ structured
questionnaire titled Factors and Consequences of Marital Conflicts and Domestic abuse among Spouses was
used for data collection. The items on the questionnaire were scored and compared, using Pearson’s Product
Moment Correlation Coefficient and the reliability index of 0.73 was obtained. The findings revealed that lack
of integrity and failed roles and expectations are responsible for marital conflict and domestic abuse among
educated and uneducated spouses.
In Nigeria, traditional gender norms often position men as the heads of households and decision-makers, while
women are expected to be submissive and tolerant, even in the face of abuse (Abasiattai & Okon, 2021). Such
expectations can perpetuate domestic abuse by reinforcing male dominance and discouraging women from
asserting their rights. Among married female secondary school teachers, these cultural pressures are
compounded by professional demands, creating dual stressors that can affect emotional wellbeing and job
performance. Teachers exposed to continuous domestic abuse may suffer anxiety, depression, and post-traumatic
stress symptoms, which in turn affect their instructional delivery and student relationships (Okafor & Opara,
2022). Moreover, fear of stigmatization often compels victims to conceal their experiences, making it difficult
for educational authorities or counseling units to offer timely support.
The significance of examining marital factors in relation to domestic abuse among married female secondary
school teachers in Akwa Ibom State cannot be overstated. Teachers serve as role models and moral guides for
students; their personal experiences, emotional health, and interpersonal relationships inevitably influence their
teaching efficiency and classroom management. If a teacher’s home environment is marred by domestic abuse,
the stress and trauma may spill over into the school environment, affecting not only her productivity but also the
emotional tone of her classroom. By investigating how specific marital factors contribute to or mitigate domestic
abuse, the present study aims to generate insights that can inform counseling practices, teacher support programs,
and gender-sensitive educational policies.
Understanding marital factors is therefore essential in addressing domestic abuse among married female
secondary school teachers. If partners possess and demonstrate positive traits, the likelihood of domestic abuse
decreases, leading to stable family environments that support personal growth and professional performance.
Conversely, negative marital factors increase the probability of aggression, emotional distress, and disrupted
family functioning. In educational contexts, this imbalance can undermine not only the wellbeing of teachers but
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XXVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Education
Page 9647
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also the overall effectiveness of schools in nurturing disciplined and motivated learners. Given the dual roles
female teachers play as educators and family caretakers, addressing this issue is both a moral and professional
imperative. Findings from this line of research can contribute to developing holistic interventions that enhance
marital stability, psychological wellbeing, and professional efficiency among female teachers in Akwa Ibom
State and beyond.
Statement of the Problem
Another dimension of concern relates to the implications of domestic abuse for the teaching profession and the
education system at large. Teaching requires a high degree of emotional stability, patience and focus, which are
qualities that may be undermined when a teacher is exposed to domestic abuse at home. Female teachers who
experience marital abuse may exhibit signs of depression, anxiety, and fatigue, which could manifest in reduced
concentration, absenteeism, and poor classroom engagement. In the long term, this may result in diminished
academic outcomes for students and declining standards in the education sector. Teachers serve as role models
and mentors to their students; hence, their psychological wellbeing directly affects how they guide, discipline,
and inspire learners. A teacher battling trauma from domestic abuse may struggle to maintain the composure and
emotional balance required to create a positive learning environment.
The recurring reports of domestic abuse across Nigeria highlight the urgency of addressing this issue. For
instance, in 2023, a well-publicized case involved a lawyer who was arrested for violently assaulting his wife,
drawing public outrage and renewed discourse on the prevalence of spousal abuse. Beyond such isolated cases,
social narratives and anecdotal evidence indicate that many women, including female teachers, suffer physical
injuries such as bruises and bumps, as well as emotional scars that are less visible but equally damaging. Studies
have also suggested that women are disproportionately the victims of domestic abuse compared to men,
reflecting deep-rooted patriarchal norms that perpetuate male dominance and control in marriage. Despite these
realities, domestic abuse among female teachers has received limited academic attention, making this study
particularly relevant and timely.
This research therefore sought to bridge this gap by exploring how specific marital factors such as empathy, self-
control and mutual respect contribute to or mitigate the occurrence of domestic abuse among married female
secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State. Understanding these dynamics is essential for developing
practical strategies that can promote healthier marital relationships, safeguard teachers’ wellbeing, and enhance
their professional efficiency. The findings are expected to provide valuable insights for policymakers, school
administrators, and guidance counsellors in designing intervention programs that address the root causes of
domestic abuse and support affected teachers.
Purpose of the Study
The primary purpose of the study was to examine the relationship between marital factors and domestic abuse
among married female secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State. Specifically, this study seeks to
investigate how various marital factors influence the occurrence or absence of domestic abuse in marriage. The
study aimed to:
1. Assess the influence of self-control on domestic abuse among married female secondary school teachers in
Akwa Ibom State.
2. Determine the influence of mutual respect on domestic abuse among married female secondary school
teachers in Akwa Ibom State.
3. Ascertain the influence of integrity on domestic abuse among married female secondary school teachers in
Akwa Ibom State.
Research Hypotheses
The following null hypotheses were posed in the study .
1. There is no significant influence of self-control on domestic abuse among married female secondary school
teachers in Akwa Ibom State.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XXVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Education
Page 9648
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2. There is no significant influence of mutual respect on domestic abuse among married female secondary
school teachers in Akwa Ibom State.
3. There is no significant influence of integrity on domestic abuse among married female secondary school
teachers in Akwa Ibom State.
RESEARCH METHOD
The study adopted the survey research design. This design was considered appropriate because it enables the
researcher to gather data from a subset of a population and generalize the findings to the entire population. In
this approach, information is obtained from respondents through a questionnaire to describe existing conditions,
opinions, or characteristics relevant to the research variables. The population for this study consisted of 3,132
married female teachers during the 2024/2025 academic session, drawn from a total of 7,026 teachers working
in 254 public secondary schools. This population was deemed suitable for the study because some married female
teachers may be experiencing various forms of physical domestic abuse in their homes, which can affect their
emotional well-being, job performance, and social interactions within the school setting.
A total of 346 married female teachers formed the sample size for the study during the 2025/2026 academic
session. The sample was selected through a stratified sampling technique, which ensured that all categories of
schools within the study area were fairly represented. The sample size was determined using the Research
Advisors (2006) Sample Size Determination Table, which suggests that as the population grows, the required
sample size also increases but at a decreasing rate. According to the table, for populations ranging between 1,000
and 1,000,000, a sample size of about 386 is generally sufficient. A 5% level of confidence was adopted to
determine the appropriate sample for this study.
The instrument used for data collection was titled “Marital factors and Domestic Abuse among Married Female
Teachers Questionnaire.” It consisted of 35 items structured to obtain responses from married female teachers.
Specifically, 15 items (five items each) were used to measure marital factors such as self-control, mutual respect
and integrity, while 20 items measured domestic abuse among married female teachers. The response format
was based on a 4-point rating scale. Items on marital factors were rated as very high extent, high extent, low
extent, and very low extent, while items on domestic abuse were rated as strongly agree, agree, disagree, and
strongly disagree. Respondents were instructed to tick the option that best reflected their opinion.
To ensure that the questionnaire measured the intended constructs, it was subjected to validation by two experts
in educational research and measurement. Their reviews confirmed that the instrument covered the relevant
content areas and was appropriate for the study population. The reliability of the instrument was established
using the Cronbach’s Alpha method to determine internal consistency. The questionnaire was administered to
30 married female teachers who were not part of the main study sample but shared similar characteristics with
those selected for the study. The analysis yielded a reliability coefficient of 0.80, indicating that the instrument
was consistent and dependable for data collection.
The researcher, assisted by two trained research assistants, administered the questionnaire to the respondents.
The assistants were adequately briefed on how to guide respondents and ensure accurate responses. Out of 346
copies of the questionnaire distributed, 341 were correctly filled and returned, resulting in a 98.6% return rate.
The administration and retrieval process lasted for a period of three weeks. The data obtained from the
respondents were coded and analyzed using simple linear regression analysis. This statistical technique was
appropriate for determining the influence of marital factors on domestic abuse among married female teachers.
The hypotheses of the study were tested at the 0.05 level of significance, which served as the benchmark for
accepting or rejecting each null hypothesis.
RESULTS
Hypothesis 1
There is no significant influence of self-control on domestic abuse among married female secondary school
teachers in Akwa Ibom State.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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Table 1: Summary of simple regression of the influence of self-control on domestic abuse among arried female
secondary school teachers (N=341)
Model
Sum of Squares
df
Mean Square
F
Sig.
1
Regression
8603.79
1
8603.79
81.28
.00
Residual
35882.55
339
105.85
Total
44486.34
340
Model
Unstandardized Coefficients
Standardized Coefficients
t
Sig.
B
Std. Error
Beta
1
(Constant)
12.17
2.09
5.84
.00
Self-control
-3.07
-.13
.79
24.00
.00
Significant at p < .05
The result in Table 1 shows the F-ratio of 97.71 with the corresponding probability level of significance of .00
alpha at 1 and 339 degrees of freedom. This level of significance is less than .05 in which the decision is based.
With this result, the null hypothesis was rejected. The result in Table 1 also shows an unstandardized coefficient
(B) of -3.07, which indicates that for every unit rise in self-control, domestic abuse decreases by -3.07.
Furthermore, the result in Table 1 shows the t-value of 24.00, with its corresponding probability level of
significance of .00 alpha. This level of significance is less than .05 in which the decision is based. With this
result, the null hypothesis was rejected. This result implies that there is significant influence of self-control on
domestic abuse among married female secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State.
Hypothesis 2
There is no significant influence of mutual respect on domestic abuse among married female secondary school
teachers in Akwa Ibom State.
Table 2: Summary of simple regression of the influence of mutual respect on domestic abuse among married
female secondary school teachers (N=341)
Model
Sum of Squares
df
Mean Square
F
Sig.
1
Regression
9365.66
1
9365.66
90.40
.00
Residual
35120.68
339
103.60
Total
44486.34
340
Model
Unstandardized Coefficients
Standardized Coefficients
t
Sig.
B
Std. Error
Beta
1
(Constant)
7.12
2.06
3.46
.00
Mutual respect
-3.70
-.13
.83
27.72
.00
Significant at p < .05
The result in Table 2 shows the F-ratio of 90.40 with the corresponding probability level of significance of .00
alpha at 1 and 339 degrees of freedom. This level of significance is less than .05 in which the decision is based.
With this result, the null hypothesis was rejected. The result in Table 4.15 also shows an unstandardized
coefficient (B) of -3.70, which indicates that for every unit rise in mutual respect, domestic abuse decreases by
-3.70. Furthermore, the result in Table 2 shows the t-value of 27.72 with its corresponding probability level of
significance of .00 alpha. This level of significance is less than .05 in which the decision is based. With this
result, the null hypothesis was rejected. This result implies that there is significant influence of mutual respect
on domestic abuse among married female secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State.
Hypothesis 3
There is no significant influence of integrity on domestic abuse among married female secondary school teachers
in Akwa Ibom State.
INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
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Table 3: Summary of simple regression of the influence of integrity on domestic abuse among married female
secondary school teachers (N=341)
Model
Sum of Squares
df
Mean Square
F
Sig.
1
Regression
6079.91
1
6079.91
53.67
.00
Residual
38406.43
339
113.29
Total
44486.34
340
Model
Unstandardized Coefficients
Standardized Coefficients
t
Sig.
B
Std. Error
Beta
1
(Constant)
8.23
2.13
3.86
.00
Integrity
-2.25
-.13
.81
17.30
.00
Significant at p < .05
The result in Table 3 shows the F-ratio of 53.67 with the corresponding probability level of significance of .00
alpha at 1 and 339 degrees of freedom. This level of significance is less than .05 in which the decision is based.
With this result, the null hypothesis was rejected. The result in Table 3 also shows an unstandardized coefficient
(B) of -2.25, which indicates that for every unit rise in integrity, domestic abuse decreases by -2.25. Furthermore,
the result in Table 3 shows the t-value of 17.30, with its corresponding probability level of significance of .00
alpha. This level of significance is less than .05 in which the decision is based. With this result, the null
hypothesis was rejected. This result implies that there is significant influence of integrity on domestic abuse
among married female secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State.
DISCUSSION OF FINDINGS
The result of hypothesis one indicated that there is significant influence of self-control on domestic abuse among
married female secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State. The finding is in line with Fincham and Beach
(2018) who viewed self- control as those processes, internal or transactional, that enable an individual to guide
one’s goal-directed activities over time and across changing circumstances. This implies that, self-control
inhibits unwanted impulses and response in a goal-directed manner. High self-control helps in maintaining
satisfactory intimate relationships through emotional support while discouraging spousal violent. Bornstein et
al. (2017) perceived that poor self-control can lead to intimate domestic abuse, including physical and
psychological aggression. Compared with people who have high levels of self-control, the authors found that
people with low self-control are less able to inhibit their desire to criticize, withdraw, and respond aggressively
during relationship conflicts, and are less likely to compromise, accommodate their partner’s destructive
behaviours, and prioritize long-term relationship goals. This therefore implies that self-control might be
reliability for relationship functioning and quality.
The result of hypothesis two showed that there is significant influence of mutual respect on domestic abuse
among married female secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State. The findings agreed with the position of
Bugh (2019) that, mutual respect is important in marital relationship because it creates a foundation of trust and
understanding that allows romantic relationship to grow and flourish. If spouses have mutual respect, Haris and
Kumar (2018) maintained that their marital union will be stronger leaving no space for misunderstanding that
could result in physical domestic abuse. If spouses fail to communicate their feelings, desires, problems and
expectations effectively, their relationship may adversely be affected. That is, if there is mutual mistrust,
problems including physical domestic abuse could set probably destroy the relationship. Murray et al. (2020)
stated that when partners are willing to compromise and find solutions that work for both of them without shifting
blames in times of conflict, it show that they respect each other. The authors added that admitting mistakes and
making amends to repair trust is an indication of mutual respect. Esere et al (2011) found that, marriage depends
on many different things to be successful, which include trust, love, time, friendship, understanding, honesty,
loyalty, sincerity and above all effective communication. Khan (2019) noted that a person who chooses to have
an internal locus of control will not shift blame or hold other people responsible for their actions; rather a person
with an external locus of control chooses to blame and make scope-goats of their love ones for their own
unhappiness and failures
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The result of hypothesis three showed that there is significant influence of integrity on domestic abuse among
married female secondary school teachers in Akwa Ibom State was accepted. This means integrity has the
capacity tackle physical domestic abuse and it is one of the positive characteristics that every spouse should
covet. The finding is in agreement with Ogodo (2015) who stated that integrity is the quality of being truthful,
sincere and straightforward in one’s dealings with others. This implies that, if couples are truthful, sincere and
straightforward, unnecessary struggle may not be seen among couples. Pace (2022) accepted that, spouses who
have integrity always tell the truth even when it requires them to face the anger of the opposite person especially
when mistake occur. Matsumura (2019) found that integrity builds trust and fosters healthy communication. The
authors added that when spouses ensure that their actions align with their words, it demonstrate reliability and
honesty, which fosters trust. Tolorunleke (2014) found that one of the causes of marital conflict and violent
conduct among spouses is their lack of marital integrity. Ross (2023) observed that a spouse with high integrity
would completely do away with violent actions that would cause emotional harm to one another in a romantic
union. Hence, spouse who are still living in the environment of physical domestic abuse may not have practiced
integrity in their lives as couples. Afu and Nteh (2020) found that many marital relationships suffer physical,
emotional and other forms of domestic abuse due to poor practice of integrity or honesty. Josiah and Nteh (2022)
found that lack of integrity and failed roles and expectations are responsible for marital conflict and domestic
abuse among educated and uneducated spouses. Therefore, to do away with some inconveniences in marriage
spouse should embrace this characteristic called integrity.
CONCLUSION
The outcome of the study holds important implications for the educational setting. It suggests that married female
teachers who exhibit positive marital factors, such as self-control, mutual respect and integrity, are more likely
to maintain peaceful and domestic abuse-free marital relationships. Consequently, fostering these qualities can
contribute to their emotional stability and overall well-being, which in turn may enhance their professional
effectiveness.
RECOMMENDATIONS
Based on the findings, the following recommendations were made:
1. That every relationship requires the ability to manage certain situations either good or bad and spouse
should have proper self-control.
2. That respect for each other is not an option but necessary conditions for social existence.
3. That integrity is needed for marital stability since family stability could predict societal stability.
REFERENCES
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7. Cheung, C., Chiu, W., & Choi, P. (2022). Couples’ self-control and marital conflict in Hong Kong, China:
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INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF RESEARCH AND INNOVATION IN SOCIAL SCIENCE (IJRISS)
ISSN No. 2454-6186 | DOI: 10.47772/IJRISS |Volume IX Issue XXVI November 2025 | Special Issue on Education
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