The Socio-Cultural impact of Childlessness on Married Couples in Egor Local Government Area of Edo State. Nigeria

Abstract

Marriage is a union between a woman and a man which may produce offspring or children. The emphasis is becoming more pronounced in recent time, especially among Christian couples who have agreed that marriage is for ―better and for worse‖, thus suggesting that marriage is not necessary for procreation of children. In the case of barren couples, children may be adopted. However, this situation raised cultural implications. This study therefore, examined the relationship between childlessness and social cultural impact among married couples in Egor Local government Area of Edo state, using cross sectional research design. Random sampling techniques was used to draw data from 100 respondents in four communities in the LGA. The findings revealed the existence of a relationship between childlessness and social incompatibility; which often result in separation and/or abandonment of wives in the community, poor communication among married couples; lack of knowledge on adoption; and other socio-cultural consequences, including abuse on the woman, social stigma, and divorce.  Based on these findings, the study recommended among others that: the Social Welfare Department should intensify awareness campaign on adoption; such information should be complemented by community advocacy and mobilization through the media, as well as Healthcare Providers playing their role in counseling.