The Influence of Communication Patterns and Spousal Fidelity on Marital Satisfaction Among Clergy in Ibadan South West Local Government Area

Abstract

This study examined the influence of communication patterns and spousal fidelity on marital satisfaction among clergy in Ibadan South West Local Government Area, Oyo State, Nigeria. Guided by Social Exchange Theory and Attachment Theory, the study adopted a descriptive survey research design. A sample of 100 clergy members was selected through a multi-stage sampling procedure. Data were collected using the Communication Patterns Questionnaire (CPQ), Perceived Fidelity Scale (PFS), and ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale (EMS). Descriptive statistics, Pearson Product Moment Correlation, and multiple regression analysis were used for data analysis. The findings revealed that 67% of the respondents demonstrated mutual constructive communication, while 68% reported moderate levels of perceived spousal fidelity. Communication patterns (r = .368, p < .001) and spousal fidelity (r = .508, p < .001) each had a significant positive relationship with marital satisfaction. Furthermore, both variables jointly explained 42.2% of the variance in marital satisfaction (Adjusted R² = .410, F(2,97) = 35.447, p < .001), with spousal fidelity emerging as the strongest predictor (β = .530), followed by communication patterns (β = .389). The study concluded that effective communication and fidelity are significant determinants of marital satisfaction among clergy. It recommends counselling programmes and marital enrichment initiatives that strengthen communication skills, trust, and fidelity to promote stable and fulfilling marriages among clergy.