Abstract
Introduction: Globally, at least 1 in 3 women has experienced some form of gender based abuse during their life time.Domestic violence occurs across the world in various cultures and affect people across society, irrespective of economic status.Aim: The aim of this study is to assess the prevalence, patterns and determinants of domestic violence among women in households in communities in Imo State.Methodology: This was a cross-sectional descriptive study carried out among 600 women living in households in Imo State. The multistage sampling technique was used to select the study participants and data was collected using a pretested, interviewer administered and semi-structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed using a computer software (EPI INFO version 7.1.3, CDC, USA), and was presented on frequency tables and percentages. Associations between variables was done using Chi-square and logistic regression where necessary. P value of ≤ 0.05 was considered statistically significant.Result: The mean age of women studied was 31.5±1.4 years. The prevalence of life time and current experience of domestic violence among the women were 72.8% and 42.6% respectively with physical (49.2%) and sexual (31.2%) abuse being the commonest types experienced. Factors found to be associated with current abuse were; age of women, (p=0.040),religious set attended, (p=0.004), occupational status of women, (p=0), marital status, (p=0.028), occupational status of partner, (p=0), place of residence, (p=0), house hold size,(p<0.0001), monthly income of women, (p<0.0001), persons lived with, (p=0.002) and level of knowledge about domestic abuse, (p=0).Conclusion: The prevalence of domestic violence among women in this study was high. Thus, there is need for government at all levels and concerned agencies to do everything within their powers to curb this menace as this will help to improve the lives of our women.
Highlights
At least 1 in 3 women has experienced some form of gender based abuse during their life time
In conclusion the prevalence of domestic violence against women was high in this study, still prevalent in our today’s society and it was found to be worse among single women with poor knowledge about domestic violence and who were likely of low socioeconomic status
There is need for government at all levels and all relevant agencies to create awareness on the consequences of domestic violence against women and implement already existing policies geared towards its prevention and punishment of perpetrators
Summary
At least 1 in 3 women has experienced some form of gender based abuse during their life time. Domestic violence has been defined as a pattern of abusive behavior in any relationship that is used by one partner to gain or maintain power and control over another intimate partner (United States Department of Justice, 2017) It is any incident or pattern of incidents of controlling, coercive, threatening behaviour, violence or abuse between those aged 16 or over who are, or have been, intimate partners or family members regardless of gender or sexuality (UK Home Office, 2013). It involves a range of acts designed to make a person subordinate and/or dependent by isolating them from sources of support, exploiting their resources and capacities for personal gain, depriving them of the means needed for independence, resistance and escape and regulating their everyday behavior (UK Home Office, 2013). Have been associated with injury, mortality and multiple health problems among women (WHO, 2013)
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