Seven causes of domestic and sexual violence in Nigeria
The Governor of Lagos State, Mr. Akinwunmi Ambode recently received the Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team ‘DSVRT’ Led by The State’s Attorney General and Commissioner for Justice, Hon. Prince Adeniji Kazeem on a courtesy visit at the State House.
The governor in his address appreciated and commended the selfless service of every member of the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Response Team in safeguarding the rights of Lagosians.
He emphasized that he will not relent in his effort to eradicate domestic violence, He also urges other institutions to support the campaign to protect women and children against any form of domestic violence and abuse.
Below are some immediate causes that can set off a bout of domestic abuse:
Traditional belief:
Some people with very traditional beliefs may think they have the right to control their partner, and that women aren’t equal to men.
Undiagnosed personality disorder or psychological disorder:
Some couples living together under the same roof need to see a psychiatrist, due to the poverty level in the country, many Nigerians may not be able to afford this, some Nigerians unknowingly live with lunatics under the same roof
Family/household traits:
Others may have learned this behavior from growing up in a household where domestic violence was accepted as a normal part of being raised in their family.
Children who witness or are the victims of violence may learn to believe that violence is a reasonable way to resolve conflict between people. Boys who learn that women are not to be valued or respected and who see violence directed against women are more likely to abuse women when they grow up. Girls who witness domestic violence in their families of origin are more likely to be victimized by their own husbands.
Alcohol/drug abuse:
Alcohol and drugs may contribute to violent behavior. A drunk or high person will be less likely to control his or her violent impulses toward their partner, so keeping such drinking or drug use episodes to a minimum may be valuable for a person living in a domestic violence situation.
Economic hardship, such as prolonged unemployment:
Most Nigerian men are usually not regarded by their wives when they lose their jobs, especially in situations where the wives may pick up huge bills like paying house rents, children school fees etc. The wives provoke the men and sometimes openly disrespect them; these may likely lead to domestic abuse
Jealousy:
Such behavior typically involves excessive questioning of spouse, suspicion, and accusations.
Many spouses become extremely frustrated with this behavior because they have no way of proving their faithfulness. This leads to an escalating cycle of anger which may lead to domestic abuse.
Anger:
If anger is not properly handled in marriage, it may lead to domestic abuse. More often than not, anger between couples are caused by misunderstanding or misinterpreted words or deeds. Couples may also find out, at times, that one partner was pushed beyond a level of tolerance. All these things may lead to domestic violence.
