Assessment of the Causes and Effects of Marital Instability among the Hausa Ethnic Group in Nigeria

The institution of marriage is highly valued among Hausa people and plays a crucial role in their social structure and identity. However, like any other society, the Hausa community also experiences instances of marital instability, leading to various consequences. The primary focus of the paper centres on identifying the significant causes and consequential effects of marital instability. Reviewing books, journals, and online papers served as a means of data collection. Utilising content analysis, the extracted data was examined. Culturally specific factors such as child betrothal/arranged marriage/forced marriage, polygyny, and interference by in-laws, along with general factors like natural defects (such as infertility and contagious diseases), socioeconomic factors (like poverty and unemployment), and unrealistic expectations, among others, have been identified as key determinants of unstable marital relationships. The paper elucidates the effects of marital instability, which encompass psychological effects, infidelity, divorce, decreased work productivity, and domestic violence. Dysfunctional theory is used to provide a theoretical framework for the study. It is recommended that couples seek knowledge and understanding of Islamic marital laws, learn to compromise, inculcate the fear of Allah in their hearts and activities, and there should be free choice in marriage.