The Role of Education, Culture and Religion on Domestic Violence on Women in Nigeria

Abstract

Background: Domestic violence on women is a public health concern of every country. The degree of violence varies from country to country. The consequences of domestic violence are enormous, and sometimes lead to death.
Objective: This study aims at understanding the role of education, religion, and culture in domestic violence in marital setting.
Method: Using qualitative data obtained December, 2014 to March, 2015, a semi-structured interview was used to conduct thirty-four in-depth interviews and six focus group discussions with educated, semi-educated, and uneducated Ikwerre women in monogamous or polygynous marriages.
Findings: From participants’ responses, we observed that the Ikwerres have a patriarchal family culture that encourages domestic violence. It was also observed that the Christian religion advocates absolute submission of the woman to the man. Education was not seen to have much effect in curbing domestic violence.
Conclusion: Women’s autonomy and personhood is eroded by culture and religion. Educating women alone will not help reduce domestic violence. Men also need to be educated. Culture that encourages domestic violence should be abolished. Religious leaders need to understand the negative effect of their teachings. The society needs to implement laws on domestic violence.