Socioeconomic Determinants of Domestic Violence Against Women in Nigeria: Empirical Evidence from National Demographic and Health Survey Data

Abstract

Many Nigerian women experience various forms of domestic violence, most of which was carried out by their spouses. This abuse occurs across all socioeconomic groups and strata. Women's human rights are violated when they are subjected to violence. This study analysed the socioeconomic determinants of domestic violence against women in Nigeria with empirical evidence from secondary data which were sourced from the National Demographic Health Survey (NDHS) 2018. The cleaned data comprised 6,603 ever-partnered women aged 15-49 years. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, and binary logistic regression. Results show that high proportion (35%) of women in Nigeria have ever experienced domestic violence which is higher than the 30% globally acceptable level of violence. Emotional abuse is the most prevalent in Nigeria as it was experienced by about one-third (33.64%) of the respondents. At p<0.01, having higher education, religion (Islam), being in the rich and richest wealth quintile, and being in the North West, South East and South West zones were significantly and negatively related to (reduced) domestic violence in Nigeria. Also, at p<0.05, having urban residence reduced the likelihood of domestic violence. However, being employed (p<0.05), and at p<0.01, partners’ alcoholism, women having history of violence, husband/partner’s jealousy, household head being male, as well as being in the North East zone were significant and positively related to (increased) domestic violence. In conclusion, domestic violence, especially emotional violence, is prevalent in Nigeria. Thus, human rights activists and NGOs fighting violence against women in Nigeria should intensify their efforts to eliminate domestic violence. Also, gender awareness programmes should be incorporated in school curriculum from primary to higher education levels so that children will be sensitized on the implications of violence, especially against women, and this would bring about reduced level of violence in the future.