Exploring communication patterns of marital stability among couples in the Bibiani Municipality

Abstract

The study was undertaken to explore communication patterns among marital couples in the Bibiani Municipality and assess how they affected marital stability. Specifically, the study sought to explore the communication patterns exhibited by couples in stable marriages, examine how ineffective communication patterns manifest among couples experiencing marital instability, explore the role active listening plays in fostering positive communication, and investigate how couples resolve conflicts through communication to foster marriage stability. Grounded in the communication theory of identity, the study adopted a qualitative research approach using the hermeneutic phenomenological design. Twenty-five couples were purposively sampled for the study and data was collected using an interview guide. Data was manually analysed thematically. However, participants’ demographic data was analysed using frequency counts and simple percentages. The findings of the study were that, expression of love and honesty were the main communication patterns that couples in stable marriage exhibited in the Bibiani Municipality. Majority of couples in the Bibiani Municipality resolved conflict through open and honest dialogue, non-confrontational communication and setting and respecting boundaries. Following the outcome of the study, it was recommended among other things that, to build and maintain stable marriages, it is important for pastors and imams to encourage couples in the Bibiani Municipality to express love and honesty in their communication. This can be achieved through relationship counselling programmes and workshops that teach couples effective ways to openly express affection and truthfulness in their daily interactions.