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Articles

CIJP: Vol.3 No. 1, June 2018

Evaluation of Nature of Domestic Violence and Coping Strategies Adopted by Women Suffering Domestic Violence in Anambra State of Nigeria

  • Ndie E. C., Osuagwu B. T. & Agbu J. O.
Submitted
July 1, 2018
Published
2018-06-19

Abstract

A study of nature of domestic violence and coping strategies adopted by women of child-bearing age in Anambra State of Nigeria was conducted with the aim of identifying the nature of domestic violence and coping strategies adopted by the women. A cross-sectional survey was conducted using multi-stage sampling technique to randomly select 400 women. Data collection was by self-administered questionnaire. Findings revealed that sexual assault was 22.55% while physical assault was 13.24%. The most adopted strategy seems to be seeking help from religious leaders (mean accounting 4.07), followed by drinking and using drugs to numb the pain (mean accounting 3.98), confiding in family and friends (mean accounting 3.96), then reporting to agencies/authorities (mean accounting 3.92). Sometimes victims just hope that the situation will improve (mean accounting 3.83), while others prefer not talking to anyone about the violence (mean accounting 3.76). In conclusion, cases should be reported appropriately and policies should be put in place to check it.  Recommendations was that Health professionals should always be on the lookout for symptoms of abuse and should include some questions on abuse in the routine history taking of adult patients; victims should be treated and referred to counselors and psychotherapists; punishment given to grievously offending husbands should be publicized to serve as deterrence to others; NGOs, media, churches and mosques should enlighten the people on the need for a violence free society with the home as the cradle. In conclusion, cases should be reported appropriately and policies should be put in place to check it.