UZOBO Endurance^1,, UGOH L. Nkechi¹

The main purpose of this research work is to investigate divorce revolution and cohabitation boom in Bayelsa state. The study particularly aimed at investigating the socio-demographic characteristics of divorcees and cohabiters, exploring the trends and patterns of cohabitation in Bayelsa State, determining factors responsible for cohabitation, investigating the prevalence of cohabitation in Bayelsa State and to examine the contribution of divorce to the cohabitation boom. The modernization theory and the rational choice theory provided the theoretical framework for this study. Based on cross-sectional design and correlational study design, a sampling technique of both probability and non-probability sampling techniques were used to select community of adult population in Yenagoa, Amassoma and Ogobiri. Using the Yaro Yamane’s formula, a structured questionnaire was administered to 400 adult men and women in Yenagoa; Amassoma and Ogobiri towns. The quantitative data were analyzed using frequencies, percentages, Binary logistics regression and Pearson’s correlation. Findings from the study showed that only the socio-demographic characteristic, Age had a role to play in cohabitation. Also, the study found out that Modernization contributes to increase in cohabitation in Bayelsa state. Finally, the study found out that divorce is not responsible for the increase in cohabitation in Bayelsa state going by the Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Based on the findings, it was recommended that marriage educational programs should be made available for couples awaiting marriage and those who are married and having problems.

cohabitation, cohabitation boom, divorce, divorce revolution, marriage