Assessing the Relationship between Childhood Trauma and Marital Satisfaction among Married Christian Individuals in Selected Catholic Churches in the Central Deanery, Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Childhood trauma significantly impacts adult intimate relationships, yet limited research examines this relationship within African Catholic contexts where cultural values, religious beliefs, and community support systems may influence outcomes. Purpose: This study assessed the relationship between childhood trauma and marital satisfaction among married Christian individuals attending selected Catholic churches in the Central Deanery, Nairobi, Kenya. A quantitative cross-sectional correlational design was employed with a sample of 297 married Catholic individuals selected through random sampling from three churches. Data were collected using the Childhood Trauma Questionnaire (CTQ), ENRICH Marital Satisfaction Scale, Brief COPE inventory, and a demographic questionnaire. Descriptive statistics, Pearson correlations, and reliability analyses were conducted using SPSS version 26.0. The study achieved an 82.8% response rate, yielding 246 valid responses. The analysis showed that Childhood trauma prevalence was substantial, with 51.6% of participants experiencing moderate-to-severe adversity in at least one domain. Physical Neglect (31.3%) and sexual abuse (23.6%) were most prevalent. Overall marital satisfaction was moderate-to-high (M = 45.68, SD = 5.43). Emotional Neglect showed a significant negative correlation with marital satisfaction (r = -.181, p = .004), while other trauma domains showed non-significant associations. Avoidant coping demonstrated the strongest negative correlation with marital satisfaction (r = -.438, p < .001). Participants predominantly employed adaptive coping strategies, with Planning, Active Coping, Humor, and Religious Coping most frequently used. Childhood trauma, particularly emotional neglect, affects marital satisfaction among Catholic individuals in Nairobi. However, adaptive coping strategies and religious resources appear to buffer trauma effects. Findings support implementing trauma-informed approaches in Catholic marriage preparation programs, pastoral care, and therapeutic interventions to address underlying childhood adversity while strengthening marital relationships.