A Phenomenological Study of the Role of Christian Values and Culture in Conflict Resolution Among Christian Couples in Mukono, Uganda

Abstract

This qualitative study utilised a phenomenological research design to examine married Christians’ perspectives on the role of Christian values and culture in the resolution of marital conflict. Twelve themes emerged. Two themes for Christian values promote conflict resolution: (a) Christian disciplines and (b) fellowship and instruction. There was one theme: (a) Church teaching on oneness and submissiveness, for Christian values that hinder conflict resolution. Three themes regarding cultural factors that promote resolution of conflict were (a) involvement of others, (b) constructive conflict response, and (c) cultural perspectives. Three themes for cultural factors that perpetuate conflict were (a) unconstructive response to conflict, (b) involvement of others, and (c) finances. One theme, (a) communication, emerged on strategies for resolving conflict. Two themes regarding strategies for preventing future occurrences of conflict were (a) source of income and (b) understanding each other. A few studies exist in the Ugandan context on culture and marital conflict. The findings from this study could help increase understanding of the strategies Christian couples use to resolve conflict and how these strategies help them maintain their marriages.