Gender inequality among married couples in the Salvation Army,A phenomenological study.

Abstract

The study investigated the nature of experiences of married female officers in the Salvation Army. Guided by the feminism theory, the study sought to understand whether gender inequality exist in officership of the Salvation Army Ghana territory. The research approach was qualitative. The study adopted a phenomenological research design to explore the lived experiences of eight participants. Data were collected via in-depth interviews and focus group discussion. Seven married female officers and one single female officer who was once married were interviewed. Also five married female officers were also engaged in a focus group discussion. The study found that there is gender inequality in officership in the Salvation Army, Ghana Territory because disparities in existing structures and systems favour male officers than female officers. This is because married female officers are denied equal opportunities in appointments to top positions, in the performance of major ministerial duties and in access to sponsorship for further studies. Additionally the study provided that sensitization of male officers and members of the church and more educational opportunities for female officers are some key measures that can help improve gender equity in officership in the Salvation Army Ghana territory.