Experiences and Perceptions on Relationship Stability in Long Distance Marriages Among Police Officers in Kira Municipality, Wakiso District

Abstract

This research investigated experiences and perceptions on relationship stability in long distance marriages among police officers in Kira Municipality, Wakiso District. The emphasis was on studying the experiences and perceptions, considering their peculiar nature of work, busy schedules, and frequent transfers as and when duty called. This research employed a narrative design that relied on qualitative methods, utilizing purposive and snowball sampling techniques. Interviews and observations were used to collect data. The validity and reliability of the research instruments were determined. Data was collected from thirty (30) respondents, including 29 Police Officers living in long-distance marriages and one (1) key informant who was a Welfare Officer. Thematic analysis was used for data analysis where different themes were developed through coding after reading and re-reading the data. Different themes guided the analysis of the findings, conclusions, and recommendations. Findings revealed that 90% of police officers in long-distance marriages enjoyed stable relationships with their spouses and that the long-distance marriage arrangement did not significantly affect the stability of their relationships. The birth and presence of children, good communication, love, and trust were the major factors that contributed to relationship stability in their marriages. The findings revealed that most police officers experienced high levels of loneliness and low levels of sexual and emotional attachment that could be enhanced through behavioral, cognitive, humanistic and spiritual strategies like child bearing, good and frequent communication, trust, commitment, love and God’s grace. Further research was recommended to mitigate loneliness since 96.6% of the respondents revealed that they preferred staying with their spouses and children than in long-distance marriages.