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A Societal Review of Male Choice Among Fertile Women in the Church

Prof. Clifford Meesua Sibani Prof. Innime Righteous Onyinyechi Fidelia Maduagwu, Moses Onyendu Okai, PhD Eberechukwu Blessing Amaka Wotogbe-Ozuzuma, Igwechi Hope Ununuma Ideaozu

Abstract

The study examined a societal review of male choice among fertile women in the Church, with particular reference to selected Pentecostal Churches in Rivers State, Nigeria. The study was motivated by the need to understand how societal norms, religious beliefs, cultural expectations, and economic considerations influence men’s preferences for women who demonstrate productivity in spiritual, professional, and community activities. Specifically, the study investigated the factors influencing male choice among fertile women, the impact of societal norms and expectations, the role of religion and spirituality, and the relationship between economic status and male perceptions of women’s productivity. The study adopted a descriptive review research design. The sample consisted of 100 members of selected Pentecostal Churches in Rivers State, while data were to be collected using a researcher- designed questionnaire divided into Sections A and B. The instrument was subjected to face and content validity through the supervisor’s assessment. Data were analysed using frequency tables and simple percentages, while the stated hypothesis was tested using the t-test as reported in the hypothesis-testing section. The reported result showed a calculated t-value of 2.813, which exceeded the critical value of 1.96 at the 0.05 level of significance, leading to the rejection of the null hypothesis. The findings suggest that societal norms and expectations influence male preferences for fertile women in the Church. The study concludes that gender- role expectations, religious teachings, education, exposure to female role models, and community attitudes are important considerations in understanding male partner preferences. It recommends that churches promote constructive discussions on gender roles, recognise women’s contributions, encourage inclusive participation, and create supportive environments in which women can contribute meaningfully to church and community life.

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