Predictors of Violence Against Women in Christian Marriages: A Case of ACK Cathedral Voi

Abstract

Violence against women is not a new phenomenon especially in Africa. However, its presence in Christian marriages in Kenya is a fertile ground for research which for some time has remained unexploited due to the assumption that Christian marriages are less violent. Recent happenings have indicated that there is a possibility of violence against women in Christian marriages. This study investigated the reasons that have influenced violence against women in Christian marriages in ACK Cathedral, Voi. The general objective of this study was to examine violence against Women in Christian marriages in ACK Cathedral church in Voi. The specific objectives of this study were: To determine the forms of violence against women in Christian marriages in ACK Cathedral Voi; To establish the reasons for violence against women in Christian marriages in ACK Cathedral Voi; To identify the Theological and Pastoral ways of mitigating violence against women in Christian marriages in ACK Cathedral Voi; to establish the ethno, cultural and Christian approaches to Christian marriages in ACK Cathedral Voi. The study was underpinned by three theories: The Social Learning Theory, the Johan Galtung’s Theory and the Feminist Theory. A descriptive research design was adopted and stratified simple random sampling was used in the study. A structured questionnaire was issued to the respondents and Likert scale was used to rate the responses. SPSS- 26 software and Microsoft Excel sheets were used in data analysis. The research revealed that violence against women in Christian marriages is primarily physical, verbal and sexual. Factors contributing to violence included poverty, lack of education, cultural practices, gender discrimination, and economic instability. The findings established that religious leaders can provide mediation, counseling, mentorship, and coaching for couples in conflict, as well as organizing seminars and team building programs. The research further noted that cultural expectations significantly shape views on gender roles, family dynamics, communication styles, and understanding of marital roles in religious texts. In addition, the findings indicated that the youth influenced by social media, stressors, substance abuse, and economic constraints, are particularly vulnerable to violence. The researcher recommends that ACK Cathedral Voi implements mentorship sessions, guidance and counseling programs, church seminars, and youth empowerment initiatives to address the vulnerabilities of young individuals influenced by social media and stressors. The church should also collaborate with the government to develop educational programs and enhance pastoral care, counselling and psychotherapy services to provide spiritual guidance and support for couples facing marital challenges.