Browsing by Author "Nelly M. Ndivo"

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    Relationship between Facebook Use and Marital Stability Among Married Individuals in Embakasi West Constituency, Nairobi County, Kenya
    (Tangaza University, 2025-10) Nelly M. Ndivo
    The institution of marriage has been one of the significant societal foundations. Marital stability among married individuals had become an area of attention in this age of social media. Thus, marital stability remains a solid foundation for married individuals and for raising children. However, there is still inadequate empirical research on the relationship between Facebook use and marital stability among married individuals. The study objectives were; to examine the levels of Facebook use among married individuals in Embakasi west constituency, to assess the levels of marital stability among married individuals in Embakasi west constituency, and to find out if there was a relationship between Facebook use and marital stability among married individuals in Embakasi west constituency. The study was anchored on Social Exchange Theory and Social Comparison Theory, which explained how individuals assess costs and rewards in relationships and how online comparisons shape perceptions of relationship satisfaction. A positivist research philosophy was adopted to ensure objectivity and quantifiable data collection. The study used a correlational survey design targeting married individuals aged 20–55 years. A sample of 300 respondents was selected using stratified random sampling to ensure representation across gender and age. Data was collected using structured questionnaires incorporating the Facebook Intensity Scale (FIS) to measure emotional involvement and frequency of use, and the ENRICH Marital Satisfaction (EMS) Scale to assess communication, satisfaction, conflict resolution, and emotional support. Data analysis was done using SPSS version 26, where descriptive statistics summarized Facebook use and marital stability levels, and inferential statistics examined the relationship between the two variables. The findings revealed that 64.0% of the respondents exhibited high levels of Facebook use, indicating that Facebook is deeply integrated into their daily routines and emotional lives. Regarding marital stability, 60.1% of the participants reported high stability, 27.6% moderate stability, and 12.3% low stability. The correlation analysis revealed a strong, positive, and statistically significant relationship between Facebook use and marital stability (r = 0.612, p = 0.000). This implies that when Facebook is used constructively—for instance, through positive interactions, respectful communication, and shared online activities—it can enhance marital satisfaction and strengthen emotional bonds. However, Facebook misuse, such as secrecy, monitoring a partner excessively, or engaging in flirtatious interactions, was found to erode trust and create relational tension. These findings align with studies by Kodzai (2015) and Clayton et al. (2013), which established that Facebook can both strengthen and weaken marriages depending on usage patterns. Similarly, Valenzuela et al. (2014) observed that healthy social media communication enhances relational closeness, while misuse fosters conflict. The study concludes that balanced and transparent Facebook use contributes to marital stability by improving communication and shared emotional experiences. It recommends that counsellors, educators, and policymakers promote awareness of healthy social media behaviors and integrate digital relationship literacy into marital counseling and educational programs.