1.1 Introduction
Feminism is a movement and ideology, seeks to challenge and dismantle the patriarchal structures that perpetuate gender-based violence. It emphasizes the importance of empowering women, promoting equality, and fostering an environment where women can live free from violence and oppression. The feminist perspective on domestic violence highlights the systemic nature of the issue, recognizing that it is deeply rooted in societal norms, power imbalances, and cultural attitudes towards gender roles. According to World Health Organization (WHO) asserted that, one in three women experiences physical or sexual violence in her lifetime, often at the hands of an intimate partner (World Health Organization, 2021). This alarming statistic underscores the urgent need to address domestic violence not only as a societal issue but also through the lens of feminism, which advocates for women's rights and gender equality.
As a prelude to other parts of this study, this chapter will discuss the background upon which this study was initiated, the statement of problems that led to this study, the Aim and Objectives of the study. Others are Significance of the study, Scope of work, Research hypothesis and questions, Limitation of the study and Definition of terms.
1.2 Background of Study
The history of domestic violence and feminism is intertwined with the broader struggle for women's rights and gender equality. For much of history, domestic violence was seen as a private matter, with little to no intervention from legal or social institutions. This perspective began to shift with the rise of the feminist movement in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, which sought to challenge and dismantle the patriarchal structures that perpetuated women's subjugation. Feminism has played a central role in redefining domestic violence as a societal problem that stems from entrenched gender inequalities and patriarchal norms. The feminist perspective posits that domestic violence is not merely an individual issue but a manifestation of broader systemic oppression. This view challenges traditional power dynamics and calls for a reevaluation of societal structures that perpetuate male dominance and female subordination.
The first wave of feminism, which emerged in the late 19th century, primarily focused on legal issues such as women's suffrage and property rights. However, early feminists also began to draw attention to the issue of domestic violence. Activists like Susan B. Anthony and Elizabeth Cady Stanton recognized that women's legal and social rights were intrinsically linked to their ability to live free from violence and abuse (Dutton, 2011). The 1970s marked a pivotal era for the feminist movement, with the emergence of women's shelters, crisis hotlines, and advocacy organizations dedicated to supporting survivors of domestic violence. These initiatives were instrumental in highlighting the prevalence of domestic violence and the urgent need for legal and social support systems. Legislative changes soon followed, with many countries enacting laws to protect victims and punish perpetrators.
Despite these advancements, domestic violence remains a pervasive issue. According to the United Nations, nearly 30% of women globally have experienced physical or sexual intimate partner violence (United Nations, 2020). The effects of such violence are far-reaching, impacting women's physical health, mental well-being, and socio-economic status. Survivors often face long-term consequences, including chronic health problems, psychological trauma, and economic instability.
Domestic violence has been a long-standing problem in Nigeria, particularly in rural areas. A study conducted in 2003 explored the factors associated with physical and sexual abuse, on a sample of 4,876 married women aged 15-49 years in the Kenya demographic survey. The results indicated that almost half of the married women interviewed reported at least one type of violence 36% was physical and 13 % were sexual (FIDA Kenya 2009).
Various factors contribute to high occurrence of domestic violence against women. This includes economic factors that render women sorely dependent on their husband. Economic dependency diminishes a woman's ability to have a say in a relationship or take action in the occurrence of domestic abuse. Cultural factors also contribute to the marginalization of women making it more acceptable for domestic violence to exist in the society. Lack of effective government initiatives discourages women from seeking protection. Social acceptances of domestic violence against women and deeply engrained cultural beliefs on the inferiority of women as well as gender roles have encouraged the practice (Cooper et al. 2005, 120).
In a survey conducted in 2010 by a district education office in Nigeria obtained information on the incidence of domestic violence in Nigeria. The survey indicated that violence against women is widespread and occurs among all social economic groups. There is however lack of information on accurate estimates of domestic violence against women due to largely unreported cases. In America, a national survey conducted among 6000 families concluded that a significant number of men assaulted their spouses (FIDA Nigeria 2010).
Therefore, in Nigeria where the research was carried out, the activities that was conducted is to know the Effects of Domestic Violence and Feminism on Today’s Woman.
1.3 Statement of Problems
Investigation revealed that domestic violence is frequently underreported due to fear of retaliation, stigma, and lack of trust in legal and social institutions. This underreporting exacerbates the invisibility of the problem and hampers efforts to provide adequate support to survivors. According to Adams et al., (2008), economic dependence is another significant issue that traps many women in abusive relationships. Financial abuse, which includes controlling access to financial resources, limiting employment opportunities, and exploiting the victim’s finances, is a common tactic used by abusers to maintain control. This economic control diminishes a woman’s ability to leave an abusive relationship and achieve financial independence (Adams et al., 2008).
Legal and institutional responses to domestic violence are often inadequate. In many regions, laws protecting women from domestic violence are either non-existent, insufficient, or poorly enforced. This legal gap leaves many women without recourse and perpetuates a cycle of violence and impunity (United Nations, 2020). Furthermore, even where protective laws exist, survivors often face barriers in accessing justice due to systemic biases, lack of resources, and complex legal processes. Hence, it is against this backdrop that this study aims to examine the effects of domestic violence and feminism on today's woman.
1.4 Aim and Objectives of Study
The aim of the study is to investigate the effects of domestic violence and feminism on today’s woman. In achieving this aim, the following specific objectives were laid out as follows:
- To identify the key barriers that prevent women from reporting domestic violence and seeking help, and how can these barriers be overcome;
- To investigate the current prevalence rates and patterns of domestic violence against women globally and within specific communities;
- To assess the demographic and socio-economic factors influence the occurrence and severity of domestic violence; and
- To examine the effectiveness of the existing legal frameworks, policies, and support systems in addressing domestic violence on Women.
1.5 Research Questions
The study came up with research questions so as to be able to ascertain the above stated objectives. The specific research questions for the study are stated below as follows:
- Are there demographic and socio-economic factors influences the occurrence and severity of domestic violence?
- How effective are existing legal frameworks, policies, and support systems in addressing domestic violence and supporting survivors?
- What are the current prevalence rates and patterns of domestic violence against women globally and within specific communities?
- What are the key barriers that prevent women from reporting domestic violence and seeking help, and how can these barriers be overcome?
1.6 Significance of Study
The outcome realized from the research findings will be significant to the following stakeholders:
- For survivors of domestic violence, this study offers valuable insights into the complex interplay between abuse and systemic factors, providing them with a better understanding of their experiences and highlighting the importance of comprehensive support systems. The research aims to inform and enhance the services they receive, ensuring more effective and empathetic assistance.
- For policymakers and legal professionals, the findings underscore the necessity of robust legal frameworks and policies that are informed by feminist principles. By identifying gaps and proposing targeted improvements, the study can guide the development of more effective legislation and enforcement mechanisms to protect survivors and hold perpetrators accountable.
- For healthcare providers and social workers, the study emphasizes the critical role they play in addressing the physical and psychological impacts of domestic violence. The research aims to equip them with a deeper understanding of the unique needs of survivors, promoting more holistic and trauma-informed approaches to care and support.
- For feminist organizations and activists, the study reinforces the importance of their advocacy efforts and provides evidence to support their campaigns for gender equality and women's rights. The findings can help strengthen their arguments, mobilize resources, and inspire further activism aimed at ending domestic violence.
- For the broader community and society, the study highlights the pervasive nature of domestic violence and its detrimental effects on women's well-being and societal progress. By fostering greater awareness and understanding, the research seeks to promote cultural and attitudinal changes that challenge patriarchal norms and support the creation of a more equitable and violence-free society.
1.7 Scope of the Study
The scope of this research is focused on the Effects of Domestic Violence and Feminism on Today’s Woman in Nigeria.
1.8 Limitations of the Study
During the course of this study, many things militated against its completion, some of which are:
- Time Constraint: The time frame given to accomplish this project was very short due to school academic calendar and it was carried out under pressure which made the researcher not to implement some necessary features.
- Financial Constraint: Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
- Lack of Initial Cooperation from Respondents: A particular limitation of this work came as a result of the respondent refusal to offer their cooperation at the initial time they were contacted. This contributed in making the success of this research study difficult.
1.9 Definition of Terms
Feminism:
Feminism is a socio-political movement and ideology that seeks to achieve equality between genders, advocating for women's rights and challenging systemic inequalities rooted in patriarchy. Feminism encompasses diverse perspectives and approaches aimed at dismantling gender-based oppression and promoting social justice (Hooks, 2000).
Domestic Violence:
It includes violence against women and girls by an intimate partner, including cohabiting partner, and by other family members, whether this violence occurs within or beyond the confines violence of the home.
Today's Woman:
It refers to women in contemporary society, encompassing diverse identities, experiences, and backgrounds, and acknowledging the intersectional nature of gender-based violence and its impacts.
Family:
It refers to a social group whose members are united by ties of blood, marriage, or adoption and who live together, cooperate economically, care for the young and create a new culture.
Domestic:
As used herein, refer to the types of relationships involved rather than the place where the violent act occurs.
Marital Violence:
It refers to threat or actual physical assault by husbands or male partners upon their female counterparts wives.
Wife Battering:
It refers to infliction of violent assaults frequently upon a woman to whom one is married to.
