1 in 4 Moroccans Fought With Spouse, Family Members During Lockdown

Rabat – One-quarter of Moroccans (25.4%) reported getting into a conflict with a household member during the lockdown period, according to a recent report from Morocco’s High Commission for Planning (HCP).

Over one-third of those in conflict (34%) got into a dispute with their spouses and 60% fought with a different household member. Meanwhile, 6% reported quarreling with both their spouse and other members—11% of women and 0.2% of men.

The report, issued on Sunday, July 26, revolved around the social interactions of Moroccans during the COVID-19 lockdown.

HCP developed the report based on a survey that targeted 2,169 diversified households between June 15-24.

According to the report, children’s education, budget management, and domestic work were the main reasons behind conflicts in Moroccan homes, especially between couples.

More than 12% of couples with children enrolled in schools reported having a dispute over assisting the children with education. Meanwhile, nearly one-fifth of Moroccans (18.5%) fought over other issues relating to children’s education. The problems include the behavior of children, the time spent with children, and children’s usage of technological devices.

Financial challenges were also a source of tension between Moroccan couples. More than one-fifth of Moroccans (22%) reported getting into a dispute due to money-related issues. The rate was highest among Moroccans less than 24 years old (28%), unemployed people (26%), and couples with children (26%).

Domestic work was the reason behind disputes for more than 8.4% of Moroccans in a couple. Moreover, 6.8% of Moroccans fought with their spouse over entertainment activities, such as watching television and family visits.

Adaptation challenges

Staying at home during the lockdown has led many Moroccans to face challenges adapting to their new lifestyle.

According to the report, 31% of Moroccans aged over 15 declared suffering from the differing daily life rhythms with their household members. The rate ranges from 17% for people in a two-member household to 35% among Moroccans living with four family members or more. It also fluctuated between 24% for people older than 45 to 40% for young Moroccans aged between 15 and 24.

The lockdown has also made many Moroccans feel a lack of privacy and intimacy. According to HCP, 18.8% of Moroccans declared not being satisfied with their personal space. The rate ranges from 16.4% for men to 21% for women. It also fluctuates between 5.2% among Moroccans living in a couple to 24.8% for those in large households.

Additionally, nearly 18% of Moroccans aged 15 and over have difficulties doing daily tasks, such as work and studies, in the presence of other household members.

Finally, the divergence in lifestyles led one Moroccan in 10 (11%) to face problems with their neighbors. The issues mainly included noise and unsolicited visits. The rate fluctuates between 7% in rural areas and 14% in Moroccan cities.