GENDER DYNAMICS IN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: UNDERSTANDING VIOLENCE AGAINST MEN IN DELTA STATE

GENDER DYNAMICS IN DOMESTIC VIOLENCE: UNDERSTANDING VIOLENCE AGAINST MEN IN DELTA STATE

1.1 Background of the Study

Delta State’s cultural mosaic—comprising Urhobo, Itsekiri, Ijaw, and other ethnic groups—yields diverse gender norms and family structures. Traditional expectations often position men as heads of households, entitled to authority and obedience; deviation from these norms can provoke partner violence as a means of “restoring order” (Gruebner et al., 2017). Concurrently, emerging shifts toward gender equity in urban centers introduce tensions as women assert economic or social independence, sometimes triggering retaliatory violence against men (Myhill, 2017).

Gender-studies literature highlights that domestic violence is not exclusively male-perpetrated; women may employ physical, emotional, or financial abuse when they perceive threats to their autonomy or well-being (Walker-Descartes et al., 2021). Psychological research indicates that male victims often experience unique trauma—compounded by role incongruity and fear of social stigma—necessitating gender-responsive support frameworks (Arango et al., 2018). Yet, Delta State lacks focused studies on how evolving gender dynamics shape violence against men.

 

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite anecdotal reports of men suffering abuse within Delta State marriages and partnerships, no systematic research has examined how local gender norms and socioeconomic changes influence these incidents. This gap obscures the full landscape of domestic violence and hinders development of inclusive prevention and support mechanisms.

 

1.3 Objectives of the Study

To analyze how traditional and evolving gender norms in Delta State correlate with male victimization.

To document prevalence, forms, and triggers of violence against men in domestic settings across urban and rural Delta communities.

To propose gender-transformative interventions that address root causes and support male survivors.

 

1.4 Research Questions

How do Delta State’s ethnic and socioeconomic variations influence domestic violence against men?

What patterns of abuse—physical, emotional, financial—are most prevalent among male victims?

Which community and policy interventions can effectively engage both genders in reducing domestic violence?

 

1.5 Significance of the Study

Gender-Based Violence Advocates: Data to expand the domestic-violence agenda to include male survivors.

Community Leaders & Traditional Councils: Insights to foster dialogues on equitable gender relations and non-violent conflict resolution.

Mental-Health and Social-Service Providers: Evidence to develop gender-responsive trauma-informed care for men.

 

1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study

Scope: Cross-sectional survey and in-depth interviews with men aged 20–60 in one urban (Warri) and one rural (Asaba environs) LGA of Delta State.

Limitations:

Disclosure Barriers: Cultural reticence may limit the depth of self-reported experiences.

Ethnic Variability: Findings from two LGAs may not cover all cultural nuances across the state.

 

1.7 Definition of Terms

Gender Dynamics: The evolving roles, expectations, and power relations between men and women.

Role Incongruity: Psychological distress experienced when one’s situation conflicts with societal gender expectations.

Gender-Transformative Intervention: Programs that challenge harmful gender norms and promote equitable relations.

Trauma-Informed Care: A framework recognizing the impact of trauma on survivors and tailoring support accordingly.

Prevalence: The proportion of a population experiencing a specific form of violence within a given time frame.

 

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.

Gruebner, O., Rapp, M. A., Adli, M., Kluge, U., Galea, S., & Heinz, A. (2017). Cities and mental health. Deutsches Ärzteblatt International, 114(8), 121–127.

Myhill, A. (2017). Measuring domestic violence: Context is everything. Journal of Gender-Based Violence, 1(1), 33–47.

Walker-Descartes, I., Mineo, M., Condado, L. V., & Agrawal, N. (2021). Domestic violence and its effects on women, children, and families. Pediatric Clinics, 68(2), 455–464.