Impact of Male Child Preference Syndrome on Christian Couples In Kaduna State, Nigeria

Abstract

The study sets out to examine the Impact of Male Child Preference Syndrome on Christian Couples in Kaduna State, Nigeria. The rampant causes of male child preference in Kaduna State prompted the researcher to conduct this study. One objective was formulated; to examine the impact of male child preference syndrome on young Christian Couples in Kaduna state. The researcher adopted descriptive survey design. Out of a total population of I,351,881 in the state, a purposive sample of 675 respondents was selected to participate. The reliability coefficient obtained in the pilot study is 0.961, indicating that the instrument is reliable for the study. Data were collected through a structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistic. A total of 624 respondents was used for this study. The result showed that female children and their mothers often endure significant hardships that impact their health, life opportunities, and overall sense of well-being. These challenges are primarily fueled by cultural norms and traditions that prioritise males over females, leading to discrimination and neglect of females. The researcher recommends that; Husbands should promote fairness and equality in their families, appreciate that both male and female children hold equal value and play vital roles in nurturing the family’s spiritual and emotional health. Husbands should challenge any cultural biases that favour males over females, as these beliefs sometimes cause emotional pain and strain in marriage. Wives should stand confidently in their worth, no matter the child’s gender; they should resist societal pressures that prioritise having a male and seek support when needed from their faith, community or counselling services to help them navigate these challenges without losing their dignity