Demographics and Marital Satisfaction among Graduate Students in Ghana

Authors

  • P. Commey-Mintah University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
  • E. Adjei-Boateng University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana
  • S. Ameko Utah State University, USA.
  • R. Yeboah University of Ghana image/svg+xml
  • E. A. Ashun Enchi College of Education, Enchi, Western North, Ghana.
  • K. D. Amponsah University of Ghana image/svg+xml
  • P. A. Dseagu University of Education Winneba, Ghana

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.26437/qmjgbr38

Keywords:

Age. gender. marital satisfaction. performance. postgraduate married students

Abstract

Purpose: This study investigates the relationship between demographic factors (age, gender, and programme of study) and marital satisfaction among married graduate students in the School of Education and Leadership at the University of Ghana.

Design/Methodology/Approach: This study utilised a quantitative descriptive survey design. From a population of approximately 280 married graduate students, 162 participants were selected through purposive and convenience sampling, guided by Yamane’s formula. Data collection employed the ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale, and analyses included descriptive statistics, independent-samples t-tests, one-way ANOVA, Pearson correlations, and integrated demographic analysis using SPSS (Version 25).

Findings: Marital satisfaction levels were generally high, with no statistically significant differences observed across age, gender, or programme of study. While older students reported marginally higher satisfaction, these differences were not significant.

Research Limitation: The study is limited to one institution and relies on self-reported, cross-sectional data.

Practical Implication: Institutions are encouraged to implement flexible academic structures and targeted support services for married students.

Social Implication: Promoting work–family balance contributes to improved student well-being and greater family stability.

Originality/Value: This study provides an integrated demographic analysis of higher education in Ghana.

 

Author Biographies

  • P. Commey-Mintah, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana

    Dr. Priscilla Commey-Mintah is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Teacher Education, School of Education and Leadership at University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.

  • E. Adjei-Boateng, University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana

    Dr. Emmanuel Adjei-Boateng is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Educational Studies and Leadership, School of Education and Leadership at University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana.

  • S. Ameko, Utah State University, USA.

    Mr. Stephen Kwame Ameko is a PhD Candidate in the Department of Instructional Technology and Learning Sciences at Utah State University, USA.

  • R. Yeboah, University of Ghana

    Dr. Rita Yeboah is a  Senior Lecturer in the Department of Teacher Education, School of Education and Leadership at University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana

  • E. A. Ashun, Enchi College of Education, Enchi, Western North, Ghana.

    Dr. Emmanuel Adom Ashun is a  Lecturer at Enchi College of Education, Enchi, Western North, Ghana.

  • K. D. Amponsah, University of Ghana

    Prof. Kwaku Darko Amponsah is an Associate Professor in the Department of Teacher Education, School of Education and Leadership at University of Ghana, Legon, Ghana

  • P. A. Dseagu, University of Education Winneba, Ghana

    Dr. Priscilla Amanorkuor Dseagu is a Lecturer in the Department of Special Education, at University of Education Winneba, Ghana.

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Published

01-04-2026

How to Cite

Demographics and Marital Satisfaction among Graduate Students in Ghana. (2026). AFRICAN JOURNAL OF APPLIED RESEARCH, 12(2), 207-225. https://doi.org/10.26437/qmjgbr38

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