THE IMPACT OF INFIDELITY AMONG MARRIED COUPLES IN KASHERE COMMUNITY AKKO LGA GOMBE STATE

This study examined the impact of infidelity among married couples in Kashere Community, Akko Local Government Area, and Gombe State, Nigeria. The research investigated the causes, effects, and coping mechanisms associated with marital infidelity within this rural community context. Using a descriptive survey research design, data were collected from 200 married respondents through questionnaires. The study employs descriptive survey design for the collection of both qualitative and quantitative data enabling an in-depth understanding of the phenomenon under the study, descriptive statistics such as simple percentage, frequency and mean was also adopted on the study. The study revealed that the primary causes of infidelity include lack of attention or affection from spouses, sexual dissatisfaction, and financial difficulties. Social media influence and cultural acceptance of male dominance were also identified as significant contributing factors. The research found that infidelity leads to severe emotional trauma and stress for affected spouses, creates distrust between partners, and contributes to family breakdown and divorce. Children in affected families suffer emotional and behavioral issues, while the broader community experiences moral decline and social instability. Regarding coping mechanisms, the study found that couples primarily rely on religious and spiritual guidance, open communication, and forgiveness to address infidelity. However, access to professional counseling services remains limited within the community. Cultural analysis revealed that society tends to tolerate male infidelity more than female infidelity, with traditional gender roles promoting unequal expectations in marriage. Statistical analysis confirmed significant relationships between economic challenges and infidelity prevalence, cultural norms and infidelity occurrence, and infidelity's impact on emotional well-being. Findings show that infidelity is not merely a personal failing but a product of interconnected social, emotional, economic, and cultural dynamics. Key drivers such as financial instability, emotional dissatisfaction, inadequate sexual fulfilment, and social media influence were identified as major contributors to unfaithfulness. Cultural norms, particularly the tolerance of male infidelity and gender expectations, also played a significant role. The study concluded that infidelity is a multifaceted phenomenon influenced by economic, emotional, cultural, and technological factors, with far-reaching consequences for individuals, families, and society. The research recommends enhanced access to marital counseling services, economic empowerment initiatives for couples, public awareness campaigns on healthy relationships, and community-based interventions that balance cultural values with psychological well-being. These findings contribute to understanding marital dynamics in rural Nigerian contexts and provide evidence-based insights for developing targeted interventions to promote marital stability and family cohesion.