Abstract

This study investigated family orientation and self-concept as predictors of marital instability among married persons in Bayelsa State. Four objectives, four research questions, and four corresponding null hypotheses guided the study. The study adopted a correlational survey research design. The population consisted of 42,567 married persons in Bayelsa State, while a sample of 400 respondents was selected using a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a researcher-developed instrument titled Family Orientation, Self-Concept and Marital Instability Questionnaire (FOSCMIQ). The instrument was validated by experts in Guidance and Counselling as well as Measurement and Evaluation, while reliability was established using the test-retest method and analyzed with Pearson Product Moment Correlation Coefficient. Data collected were analyzed using simple linear regression analysis at a 0.05 level of significance. The findings revealed that communication pattern significantly predicted marital instability (R² = 0.426, p < 0.05), family values significantly predicted marital instability (R² = 0.349, p < 0.05), self-image significantly predicted marital instability (R² = 0.248, p < 0.05), and ideal self significantly predicted marital instability (R² = 0.104, p < 0.05). The study concluded that family orientation and self-concept are significant predictors of marital instability among married persons in Bayelsa State. It was therefore recommended that counsellors, family educators, religious organizations, and relevant stakeholders should promote effective communication, positive family values, healthy self-image, and realistic self-expectations among married persons in order to enhance marital stability and reduce marital instability..