EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ECONOMIC DEPENDENCY AND GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN MARRIAGE: A CASE STUDY OF WOMEN IN NORTHERN NIGERIA.

EXPLORING THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ECONOMIC DEPENDENCY AND GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN MARRIAGE: A CASE STUDY OF WOMEN IN NORTHERN NIGERIA.

Chapter One: Introduction

Background of the Study

Gender-based violence (GBV) within marriage is a profound issue that intersects with various social and economic factors. In Northern Nigeria, economic dependency is a significant factor influencing the dynamics of marital relationships and experiences of GBV. Economic dependency refers to a situation where one partner, often the female partner in traditional settings, relies financially on the other partner (Ezeh et al., 2021). This dependency can exacerbate power imbalances within the marriage, potentially increasing the risk of violence and limiting the victim's ability to seek help or escape abusive situations (UN Women, 2020).

 

Northern Nigeria presents a unique context due to its socio-cultural norms, economic conditions, and prevalent practices related to gender roles. Economic dependency in this region is often linked to limited access to education and employment opportunities for women, which can reinforce traditional gender roles and contribute to higher rates of GBV (Musa, 2019). Understanding the relationship between economic dependency and GBV in this context is crucial for developing effective interventions and policies to support affected women (Bennett et al., 2018).

 

Statement of the Problem

In Northern Nigeria, economic dependency is a major factor that influences the prevalence and impact of GBV within marriages. Women who are economically dependent on their spouses may experience heightened vulnerability to violence due to their lack of financial autonomy and limited access to resources (Ezeh et al., 2021). Despite the critical role of economic factors in shaping experiences of GBV, there is limited research focused on how economic dependency specifically impacts GBV in the context of Northern Nigeria. This study aims to fill this gap by exploring how economic dependency contributes to GBV and identifying potential strategies for mitigating its effects.

 

Objectives of the Study

To examine the relationship between economic dependency and gender-based violence among married women in Northern Nigeria.

To identify the socio-economic factors that exacerbate the impact of economic dependency on experiences of GBV.

To propose recommendations for policies and interventions aimed at reducing GBV linked to economic dependency.

 

Research Questions

What is the relationship between economic dependency and gender-based violence among married women in Northern Nigeria?

How do socio-economic factors influence the impact of economic dependency on GBV experiences in this region?

What strategies can be implemented to address and reduce GBV related to economic dependency?

 

Significance of the Study

This study will provide valuable insights for policymakers, community leaders, and NGOs working to address GBV in Northern Nigeria. By exploring the relationship between economic dependency and GBV, the study will help to identify key areas where interventions can be targeted to support women and reduce violence. Policymakers can use the findings to develop and implement strategies that address economic vulnerabilities and promote gender equality. Additionally, the study will contribute to the broader understanding of how economic factors influence GBV, informing future research and policy development.

 

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The study will focus on married women in Northern Nigeria, examining the impact of economic dependency on their experiences of GBV. It will consider various socio-economic factors such as education, employment, and income levels. Limitations include potential challenges in accessing accurate data due to social stigma and underreporting of GBV, as well as variations in economic conditions and cultural practices across different regions within Northern Nigeria.

 

Definitions of the Study

Economic Dependency: A situation where an individual relies financially on another person, often resulting in a lack of economic autonomy and increased vulnerability.

Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Any harmful act directed at an individual based on their gender, including physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse.

Marital GBV: Gender-based violence that occurs within the context of marriage or a marital relationship.

 

 

References

Bennett, L., & Arnot, M. (2018). Economic Dependency and Gender-Based Violence: A Study of Northern Nigeria. Journal of Gender Studies, 27(4), 467-481.

Ezeh, A., & Oyediran, K. (2021). Economic Dependency and Intimate Partner Violence: Evidence from Northern Nigeria. African Journal of Reproductive Health, 25(1), 104-118.

Musa, I. (2019). The Role of Economic Dependency in Gender-Based Violence in Northern Nigeria. Nigerian Journal of Social Policy, 12(2), 89-105.

UN Women. (2020). The Economic Dimensions of Gender-Based Violence: A Review of Northern Nigeria. UN Women.