Evaluating the Effectiveness of Premarital Counselling on Marital Stability of Young Married Couples in Jos Metropolis, Plateau State, Nigeria

This study evaluates the effectiveness of premarital counselling on the marital stability of young married couples in Jos Metropolis, Plateau state, Nigeria. Utilizing a descriptive survey research design, the study had 650 as the population, and sampled 342 young married couples selected through a multi-stage sampling technique. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire that assessed couples’ exposure to premarital counselling, the content and quality of counselling received, and indicators of marital stability such as communication, conflict resolution, financial management, and emotional adjustment. The instrument was validated by experts in counselling, and research, measurement and evaluation units of educational foundations department, University of Jos and demonstrated high reliability index of 0.84. findings reveal that couples who participated in premarital counselling exhibit significantly higher levels of marital satisfaction, better communication skills, and more effective conflict resolution strategies compared to those who did not receive counselling. Additionally, premarital counselling positively influenced couples’ financial management and sexual adjustment, contributing to overall marital stability. The study recommends that religious institutions, counselling centers, and policymakers intensify efforts to promote comprehensive premarital counselling programmes tailored to the socio-cultural context of Jos Metropolis.