Moderating Factors of Digital Intimacy Interference and Marital Stability of Couple in Rivers State

This study ascertained moderating factors on digital intimacy interference and marital stability of couple in Rivers State. The objectives of the study were among others: to identify the cultural/societal norms in Rivers State that moderate the relationship between digital intimacy interference and marital stability of couple. Theoretical framework of the study was drawn from the social penetration and social network interference theories. The research design adopted for this study was descriptive survey design. According to National Population Census, 2006 population census of Rivers State, the population of married male and female by age 18 and above was 1,404,855 (one million, four hundred and four thousand, eight hundred and fifty-five). According to a sample size table from Krejcie and Morgan’s sample table, a study population of 100,000, a sample of 384 is adequate. The sampling technique used by this study was multi-stage sampling technique. The research questions were analysed, using the weighted mean score and the criterion weighted mean score (CWMS) was established at 2.50. Findings revealed that, societal expectations of sharing personal information on digital platforms, cultural norms on perception of privacy, societal pressure to maintain traditional family values and relationship boundaries were the cultural and societal norms in Rivers State that moderated the relationship between digital intimacy interference and marital stability of couple. The study concluded that, individuals’ online behaviour and personal information sharing are greatly influenced by societal expectations, cultural norms and societal pressure to maintain traditional values. The study recommended that, couple should encourage a more open discourse about online behaviour and privacy, as well as promoting awareness and understanding of diverse cultural norms, in order to create a more inclusive and respectful digital environment for all individuals