Extra Marital Relationship and Marital Crisis: Married Adults' Perception in Kwara State, Nigeria

Extramarital relationship is considered as a destructive development capable of undermining marriages and considered one of the causes of marital problems. This study explored the perceptions of married adults in Kwara State regarding extramarital relationships and their impact on marital crises. The research adopted a descriptive survey design, which allowed for a clear depiction of the factors, consequences, and possible solutions related to extramarital affairs. The study population consisted of adult workers from the Ministry of Women Affairs, the Kwara State Ministry of Social Welfare, and the Kwara State Centre for Alternative Dispute Resolution, who were selected using purposive sampling due to their familiarity with marital issues and complaints. A total of 80 respondents were surveyed. The findings indicated that the primary factors responsible for extramarital affairs, as perceived by married adults, include poor communication, unresolved conflicts, societal stigma, dissatisfaction within the marriage, and underlying issues within the relationship. Additionally, the consequences of such affairs are seen to include emotional distress, guilt, and negative societal attitudes. In terms of solutions, respondents emphasized the importance of open communication between partners, support from family and friends, and the power of forgiveness in mitigating marital crises caused by extramarital affairs. The study’s findings provide valuable insights into the perceptions of married adults in Kwara State and offer practical strategies for addressing marital challenges associated with infidelity. The study recommended that; couples be encouraged to participate in regular marital counseling sessions, efforts be made to reduce the societal stigma associated with seeking help for marital issues through public awareness campaigns and establishment of community-based support groups and couples facing marital crises should be encouraged to lean on family and friends for emotional support.