Social Media Usage and the Rising Cases of Divorce in Nigeria

Social media has transformed communication and interpersonal
relationships, yet its impact on marital stability remains a growing
concern. In Nigeria, the increasing rate of divorce has been linked to
various factors, including excessive social media usage, which has
been reported to foster infidelity, emotional detachment, and conflict
among married couples. This study investigates the influence of social
media on the rising cases of divorce in Nigeria, focusing on the extent
of social media usage, its contribution to marital conflicts, key factors
influencing instability, and strategies to mitigate its negative effects.
The study is anchored on the Social Exchange Theory and Uses and
Gratifications Theory, which explain how individuals assess relational
costs and benefits while using media to satisfy personal needs. A survey
research design was employed, targeting married men and women
aged 18-60 years in Ibadan North Local Government Area of Oyo
State. A stratified random sampling technique was used to select 60 respondents, thus ensuring diverse demographic representation. Data
were collected using a structured questionnaire and analysed using
descriptive statistics. Findings reveal that excessive social media use
reduces quality time between spouses, fosters distrust, and contributes
to infidelity, thereby increasing marital conflicts. The study concludes
that social media plays a significant role in marital instability and
recommends setting clear boundaries for online activities, promoting
transparency, and integrating social media conflict management into
marriage counselling sessions. Public awareness campaigns should
also be conducted to educate couples on responsible digital
engagement to enhance marital stability in Nigeria.