ASSESSMENT OF THE INCIDENCE AND CAUSES OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AMONG MARRIED COUPLES IN EDO STATE, NIGERIA
Keywords:
causes, domestic violence, incidence, injury, violationAbstract
Domestic violence remains a significant social and public health concern in Nigeria, with implications for marital stability and family well-being. This study examined the incidence and causes of domestic violence among married couples in Edo State, Nigeria. Specifically, it assessed the prevalence of domestic violence and identified key socio-economic and socio-cultural factors influencing its occurrence. A survey research design was adopted. Data were collected using structured questionnaires administered to 980 married individuals selected through a multi-stage sampling technique, out of which 919 valid responses were retrieved (93.8%). Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, including frequency distributions, percentages, mean scores, and graphical illustrations. Findings indicate a high incidence of domestic violence in Edo State, as evidenced by both survey responses and media-reported cases between 2008 and 2018, which showed a sustained increase over time. The major reported causes include partner suspicion and controlling behaviour (11.2%), economic hardship and inability to meet family needs (10.9%), childlessness or gender preference (10.7%), and infidelity (9.0%). Other contributing factors such as substance abuse (6.5%) and interference in personal affairs (6.6%) were also identified. The study concludes that domestic violence in Edo State is driven by multiple interacting factors, particularly economic stress and power dynamics within marriage. It recommends targeted policy interventions, including economic support programmes, public awareness campaigns, and stricter enforcement of laws against domestic violence to reduce its prevalence and protect family stabilityReferences
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