DOMESTIC VIOLENCE, ITS EFFECTS AND SOCIETAL RESPONSE

ABSTRACT

This research work examined domestic violence, its effects and societal response. The magnitude of domestic violence in the Nigerian society is high. Most cases of domestic violence involve from couple and intimate partner cohabiting together. This research work shows that women are the most victims of domestic violence while the male victims are few. The practice of not reporting is a product of culture, custom and tradition. Domestic violence in Nigeria is begin trivialized by the police, prosecutors and judges. These reasons contribute to why abused women hide cases of domestic violence. Police trivialize cases of domestic violence and often treat it as a family affair. Though Women suffer high levels of domestic violence, such as physical abuse, verbal abuse, sexual abuse, economic and social deprivation, men also are victims of domestic violence however, in rare cases. Many abused women adjust to whatever situation they find themselves in their husbands’ homes because tradition and culture do not support reporting violence. Patriarchy is a challenge to liberal feminists who seek to strengthen laws as a way out of gender discrimination, gender inequality, oppression and exploitation.