Like somebody say “Violence doesn’t equal strength”, over the years domestic violence have been one of the pressing issues experienced by people each day in Nigeria. While there is no exact data on the rate of domestic violence in Nigeria, studies have shown that it is wild spread problem the affect indigenous women of all ages and social-economic backgrounds. Abuse and maltreatment that take place in the context of any romantic relationship is described by the above specific term. It affects women, men and teen girls and boys, most especially women. Many women suffer in silence and afraid to seek for help. This silence has a high cost not only for the victims but society as a whole.
Domestic violence may consist of one or more forms including emotional, psychological, physical, sexual, or economic abuse and it is defined as one person in intimate relationship using any means to suppress and control the order partner who can be assaulted in different forms that includes emotional, mental and even psychologically. It takes place through pinching, pushing, hitting, slapping, stabbing, criticizing of partner, forceful sex, stalking and financial limiting opposite partner.
Although there is no precise factor that leads to domestic violence, the act of abuse could be due to opposite partner being under the influence of hard drugs (especially alcohol), others are unemployment that leads to frustration of partner.There are reasons why domestic violence is a wild spread problem In Nigeria one of the reason is the cultural norms and attitude that are prevalent in many part of the country for example, there Is a strong patriarchal system in place, where men are seen are the head of the household are women are expected to be submissive and obedient this system has created an environment where domestic violence is seen as normal and even justified.
There are high effect o domestic violence, which can be long lasting and far reaching both for the victims and the society. Victims of domestic violence often suffers from physical and psychological injuries that can last a lifetime in some, the act result to death of victims. Research into death that result from intimate partner abuse in the world shows that more than 50% of women are murdered at the cost of domestic abuse, most often using harmful substance. In USA, 1300 deaths were attributed to domestic abuse as of 2003. In Nigeria, one third of women can expect to be victim of intimate partner abuse.
In addition, it is at an increased risk of developing emotional and behavioral problem such as depression and anxiety. The victim may also face financial difficulty such as been unable to support their families. Abuse pregnant women has been associated with delivering of babies with low IQ. Married individuals children who witness domestic violence are at high of developing anxiety and depression.
It also has negative impact on the economy as it can lead to lost of productivity and increased healthcare costs. Most of the young people engaged In domestic violence end up becoming drug addict, nevertheless, there are several ways to combat domestic violence, with increasing awareness there have been a growing recognition of the prevalent and seriousness of domestic violence this has lead to increase in research and advocacy to race awareness of issues, They should effort to supportto provide support and resources on victims of violence.
Another way to combat domestic violence is through the trauma informed approach. This approach recognize that domestic violence can cause long lasting psychological, emotional and physical effect on victims. There is need to provide resources support that to meet the unique wants of survivors they include things like counseling, legal, and financial supports. Domestic violence is a complex issues, and a one- sizes fits all approach won’t work but an increased use of laws and polices that criminalized domestic violence, as well as, programs that focus on rehabilitation and education. More also, domestic violence will require a cultural shift. It require change in the way we think above gender roles, power and relationship and also charge on how we do view thing. It is needed in our society to counter the role of cultural and gender normsin domestic violence. For instance, men have often been seen as the “breadwinner” and women as the “ home makers”. Theses gender roles can create entitlement and power imbalance that can lead to abuse. Cultural shift can be created through education, like teaching children and young people about healthy relationship and boundaries from a young age. We also need to create spaces fro open and honest conversation about domestic violence. School and institution can all play a role in this.
Technology is one of the tools concerning domestic violence and many barriers that prevent victims from getting the hell they need. Technologies like smartphones and social media, have made it easier for victims to seek help and share their stories technology has also made it easier to track and monitor offenders and to coordinate responses to domestic violence incidents. One of the examples is using “crime an domestic analysis” software to map but patterns of domestic violence. This software can help authorities reaching identity areaswhere domestic violence is most common, and they can then target their prevention effort in those areas.
In conclusion, domestic violence is a complex and multifaceted issues with no easy solutions. But it is an issues that is far-reaching and long-lasting. Therefore, it should not be underrated and ignored by understanding the cause and consequences of domestic violence, we can work towards creating a world where every one is safe and respected this requires an effort from individuals, communities and government.
Breaking the silent act if domestic violence in Nigeria we can help to create a safer and more just society for everyone.
– Isah Ojonoka Deborah
300 Level Student, Mass Communication Department,
Prince Abubakar Audu University Anyigba, Kogi State.
