CULTURAL BELIEFS AND VIOLENCE AGAINST MEN: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE SOUTH-WESTERN AND NORTHERN STATES

CULTURAL BELIEFS AND VIOLENCE AGAINST MEN: A COMPARATIVE STUDY OF THE SOUTH-WESTERN AND NORTHERN STATES

1.1 Background of the Study

Attitudes toward male victimhood vary markedly across Nigeria’s geopolitical zones. In South-Western States (e.g., Lagos, Oyo), urbanization and Westernized norms have begun to challenge traditional gender roles, yet strong cultural expectations of male stoicism persist (Clair, 2018). In contrast, Northern States (e.g., Kano, Kaduna) often undergird discipline and family authority with religious interpretations that may implicitly condone male victimization under patriarchal doctrine (Christian & Committee on Child Abuse and Neglect, 2015).

Comparative sociological research suggests that where cultural scripts valorize “discipline” and “honor,” victims—regardless of gender—suffer in silence to avoid shame (Hofstraat & van Brakel, 2016). Psychological studies further demonstrate that internalized norms of masculinity inhibit help-seeking and heighten trauma responses among male survivors (Arango et al., 2018). Understanding these regional belief systems is crucial for designing culturally attuned interventions that encourage disclosure and support for abused men.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite evidence that regional culture shapes both the prevalence and acceptance of violence against men, there is no systematic comparison of how South-Western versus Northern belief systems influence male victimization. This gap leaves policymakers and service providers without the nuanced insights needed to tailor regional prevention and support strategies.

 

1.3 Objectives of the Study

To document prevailing cultural beliefs regarding masculinity and discipline in selected South-Western and Northern States.

To compare rates and types of violence experienced by men in these regions.

To develop culturally specific recommendations for reducing stigma and improving access to support for male survivors in each zone.

 

1.4 Research Questions

What cultural narratives justify or conceal violence against men in South-Western versus Northern States?

How do prevalence and forms of male victimization differ between these regions?

Which region-tailored interventions can most effectively address cultural barriers to help-seeking?

 

1.5 Significance of the Study

Regional Policy Makers & NGOs: Will receive evidence to design zone-specific awareness campaigns and support services.

Community and Religious Leaders: Insights to engage in culturally resonant dialogues that challenge harmful norms.

Mental-Health Practitioners: Data to develop regionally adapted therapeutic approaches that address culturally specific stigma.

 

1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study

Scope: Mixed-methods research in urban and rural communities of one South-Western State (e.g., Oyo) and one Northern State (e.g., Kano), surveying men aged 18–60.

Limitations:

Regional Diversity: Findings from two states may not generalize to all South-Western or Northern contexts.

Underreporting Bias: Stigma may differentially suppress disclosure in each region.

 

1.7 Definition of Terms

Masculine Stoicism: Cultural expectation that men endure hardship without complaint (Clair, 2018).

Patriarchal Doctrine: Religious or traditional beliefs that grant family authority, potentially justifying disciplinary violence (Christian & Committee on Child Abuse and Neglect, 2015).

Internalized Stigma: Self-directed shame that inhibits help-seeking among survivors (Lucksted & Drapalski, 2015).

Comparative Study: Research method involving systematic contrast across two distinct contexts.

Regional Intervention: A targeted program or policy designed to address cultural factors unique to a geographic area.

 

List of References

Arango, C., Díaz-Caneja, C. M., McGorry, P. D., Rapoport, J., Sommer, I. E., Vorstman, J. A., … Carpenter, W. (2018). Preventive strategies for mental health. The Lancet Psychiatry, 5(7), 591–604.

Christian, C. W., & Committee on Child Abuse and Neglect. (2015). The evaluation of suspected child physical abuse. Pediatrics, 135(5), e20150356.

Clair, M. (2018). Stigma. Core concepts in sociology, 318–321.

Hofstraat, K., & van Brakel, W. H. (2016). Social stigma towards neglected tropical diseases: a systematic review. International Health, 8(suppl_1), i53–i70.

Lucksted, A., & Drapalski, A. L. (2015). Self-stigma regarding mental illness: Definition, impact, and relationship to societal stigma.