The Effects of Wife and Mother in-Law Relationship on Martial Satisfaction

Abstract

This is a descriptive study on the effects of the wife-mother-in-law relationship on marital satisfaction. The study identified the common sources or reasons of conflict between the wife and the mother in-law. It also determined the socio-cultural factors affecting the wife-mother in-law relationship in the rural areas. The study was conducted in Barangay Sta. Maria, Camiling and Brgy. San Julian, Moncada, Tarlac. The target population comprised of thirty respondents with ages 15-30 years old at the time of marriage. The survey method making use of a four-part structured questionnaire, was the main procedure in collecting data. The purposive sampling procedure was used in the selection of the study participants. Most of the respondents were predominantly housewives, with Ilocano speaking mother in-laws. ‘Results showed that the younger the marrying age of the wives, the more likely the chances of conflict with the mother in-law, which correlated with the findings of previous researches. The high level of education of the wife, frequent or excessive contact with the mother in-law, maturity level of the wife, rearing of grandchildren, and the husband’s overdependency to his mother were the most common sources of conflict. Another considerable factor was the differences in views regarding financial matters. Analysis of data revealed that communication or the act of sharing feelings between the husband and wife was most often affected in the area of marital relations. Results taken from the means indicated that there was a significant effect of the wife mother in-law conflict on the relationship of the husband and wife and their marital satisfaction.