‘Pentecostal’ Language And Conflict Resolution In Africa

ABSTRACT

The paper observes the use of pentecostal language as a positive

trend in the resolution of conflicts within the African family setting.

It specifically notes the element of negativity embedded in verbal

violence and its attendant psychological effects that is contained in

interpersonal relationships within the family setting. It further

notes the increasing disappearance of such negativity in the light

of Pentecostal influence on the lifestyle of the people. A major point

of concentration in the paper is located within the pervasive

tendency for Pentecostalism within the Nigerian society to touch

virtually all aspects of life within and even outside the Yoruba (of

south-western Nigeria) setting. Paramount among these is namechanging

and a re-enactment of positive confessions in countering

seemingly negative situations or pronouncements. Overall, the

paper makes suggestions on how this could be further enhanced in

the prevalent linguistic conditions within the African society, thus

paving the way for sustainable national development.