Communication pattern, emotional intelligence and educational status as factors in marital satisfaction

Abstract

Substantial literature have identified communication pattern, emotional intelligence and levels of education as important variables in understanding what makes for marital satisfaction. However, little research have been conducted in the Nigerian setting. In this study, we examined demand-withdrawal communication pattern, emotional intelligence and educational status as factors in marital satisfaction among married employees of the University of Nigeria. Using convenient sampling method, 200 married staff of the University of Nigeria (age range = 25-64 years) participated in the study. Pearson’s correlation and multiple regression were applied in the data analysis. Results showed that communication pattern and educational status predicted marital satisfaction while emotional intelligence was not a significant predictor of marital satisfaction. Implications of the results were discussed while suggestions for further study were made in light of improving marital satisfaction among couples.