MARITAL STRESS, WORK-LIFE BALANCE, AND EMOTIONAL INTELLIGENCE ON MARITAL SATISFACTION AMONG COUPLES.

The study investigates the effects of marital stress, work-life balance, and emotional intelligence on marital satisfaction among couples in the oil and gas industry in Ibadan and Lagos States, Nigeria. A quantitative approach was used with the help of G-power analysis to achieve a sample size of 239 respondents within the two states. Descriptive and inferential statistics (regression analysis and ANOVA) were used for data analysis, and inference was drawn at 0.05 significance. The findings revealed that respondents are satisfied in their marriages, can balance work and life (β = 0.124, p =.030), possess better emotional intelligence (β= 0.117, p =.040), and experience reduced marital stress (β = .004, p =.145). The independent variables' relative contribution (F = 7.487; p 0.05) shows that work-life balance and emotional intelligence contribute positively and significantly to marital satisfaction, while marital stress does not contribute significantly. Based on the study's findings, it is recommended that couples in the oil and gas industry focus on finding ways to create a balance between work responsibilities and personal life. Additionally, it is important to address any sources of marital stress through open communication, seeking professional help if needed, and practicing stress-management techniques. These actions can help reduce marital stress and improve overall satisfaction in the relationship.