article · The Journal of Medicine Law & Public Health
This study investigated intimate partner violence (IPV) patterns, predictors, and help-seeking behaviours among women in rural and urban communities of Osun State, Nigeria. Using a mixed-methods approach with 500 ever-partnered women, it found that physical violence was more common in rural areas, while controlling behaviour and psychological violence predominated in urban settings. Predictors included partner alcohol consumption, childhood exposure to abuse, and a dysfunctional partner family background. Less than half of the women disclosed IPV, with religious leaders and women's organisations being key support sources. Barriers to seeking help included fear, shame, stigma, and economic dependence. The findings suggest that rural-urban differences necessitate tailored prevention and response strategies, such as strengthening referral pathways and women's economic empowerment.
Intimate partner violence is a significant public health issue with severe consequences for women. Understanding the differing experiences and barriers to help-seeking in rural and urban areas is crucial for developing effective, context-specific interventions. This research provides insights to inform targeted support services and prevention programmes.
The abstract does not indicate a direct commercialisation pathway. The findings primarily inform public health policy and programme development, suggesting improvements to support services, community education, and women's economic empowerment initiatives.
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Background: Intimate partner violence (IPV) is a major public health problem with serious physical, psychological, sexual, and socioeconomic consequences for women. This study compared patterns, predictors, and help-seeking behaviours related to IPV among women in rural and urban communities in Osun State, Nigeria. Methods: A comparative cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted between May and July 2023 among 500 ever-partnered women (250 rural and 250 urban) selected through multistage sampling. Quantitative data were collected using a pretested, interviewer-administered questionnaire adapted from the World Health Organization’s Multi-Country Study on Women's Health and Domestic Violence, while qualitative data were obtained through four focus group discussions. Data were analysed using descriptive statistics, multivariable logistic regression, and thematic analysis. Results: Physical violence was more common among rural women, whereas controlling behaviour and psychological violence predominated in urban communities. Significant predictors of IPV included partner alcohol consumption, childhood exposure to abuse, dysfunctional partner family background, and older partner age. Fewer than half of the respondents disclosed IPV, and among those who sought help, religious leaders and women's organisations were the most frequently consulted sources of support. Fear, shame, stigma, and economic dependence were the major barriers to help-seeking. Conclusion: Rural–urban differences exist in the patterns, predictors, and help-seeking behaviours associated with IPV. Strengthening referral pathways, survivor-centred support services, community education, and women's economic empowerment may improve IPV prevention and response.
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DOI: 10.52609/jmlph.v6i3.304
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