Religious Teachings on Marital Conflicts Among Women in Tharaka Community

Abstract

This study examined the influence of religious teachings on marital conflicts among women in the Tharaka community, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. Religious institutions play a major role in defining gender roles and marital responsibilities. While religious teachings promote harmony and moral guidance, certain interpretations reinforce male authority, restrict women's decision-making, and contribute to marital conflicts. Limited research has addressed the specific impact of these teachings on women's marital relationships in Tharaka. Guided by Structural Functionalism Theory, the study explained how such teachings persist as part of the social order, even when they disadvantage women. The target population was 99,435, with a sample of 380 participants comprising 148 married women, 150 married men, 70 single women, three clergies, and nine lay leaders from Matiiri Catholic Church, East Africa Pentecostal Church, Gatunga, and Methodist Church of Kenya, Marimanti. A descriptive survey design was utilised, and data were collected through questionnaires and interviews. Findings revealed that religious teachings strongly shape gender roles, often promoting female submission and discouraging divorce, even in abusive situations. Although churches offer counselling, challenges such as limited access, outdated doctrines, and inconsistencies persist. The study concluded that while the church plays a vital role in marital life, doctrinal reforms and inclusive practices are essential. It recommends updating religious teachings to promote mutual respect, gender equity, and stronger church-community collaboration. The study contributes to the sociology of religion by illustrating how religious teachings function as social constructs that shape marital dynamics and individual experiences.