Abstract:
This study examines factors that account for spousal communication in Juo and Joa
communities in the Nanumba-North Municipality. The study also examined how
spouses communicate and how spousal communication can be enhanced. A case study
research design was adopted while in-depth interviews, focus group discussions and
non-participant observation were used to gather qualitative data. Twenty married
couples were sampled for the study. Data were analyzed thematically and explained
using communication theories (interpretive and interaction Theories) and Social
exchange theory as the theoretical basis. The findings show that infidelity, inadequate
sexual role, infertility, performance self-responsibility, affection, and tolerance are
factors that account for spousal communication. It was also found that couples
communicate verbally and non-verbally through words and proxemics (distance), facial
expression, paralanguage (manner of communication), eye contact, personal attire,
hand gestures, body position, posture, head movement, material gifts, silent protest,
physical assault, avoidance, responsibility taking, engagement, sexual denial and
adequate sexual role respectively. The study concluded that spousal communication can
be enhanced through decision-making, affection, engagement, responsibility taking,
adequate sexual role and tolerance.
Description:
A dissertation in the Department of Communication and Media Studies,
Faculty of Foreign Languages Education and Communication, submitted to
the School of Graduate Studies, in partial fulfillment
of the requirements for award of the degree in
Master of Philosophy
Communication and Media Studies
(Communication Skills)
in the University of Education, Winneba.
JULY, 2020