ANALYZING THE SOCIOECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE ON FAMILIES IN RURAL COMMUNITIES

ANALYZING THE SOCIOECONOMIC CONSEQUENCES OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE ON FAMILIES IN RURAL COMMUNITIES

Chapter One: Introduction

Background of the Study

Gender-based violence (GBV) is a critical issue that extends beyond the individual victims to affect entire families and communities, particularly in rural areas where socio-economic challenges are more pronounced. Globally, one in three women has experienced physical or sexual violence, primarily from an intimate partner, with profound implications for their social and economic well-being (World Health Organization [WHO], 2017). In rural communities, the impact of GBV is exacerbated by factors such as poverty, limited access to education, and inadequate healthcare services, which collectively contribute to a cycle of violence and economic disadvantage (Heise et al., 2019).

 

In many rural areas of Nigeria, deeply entrenched patriarchal norms perpetuate GBV, often leaving women and their families in vulnerable positions (Okemgbo et al., 2016). The economic consequences of GBV are significant, as violence can lead to job loss, reduced productivity, and increased healthcare costs for families (Duvvury et al., 2015). Moreover, the social stigma attached to GBV can result in social isolation, further limiting the economic opportunities available to survivors and their families (Ogbe et al., 2020).

 

The intersection of GBV with socio-economic factors in rural communities presents unique challenges. Limited access to justice, economic dependency on male partners, and a lack of support services exacerbate the impact of violence, trapping families in a cycle of poverty and abuse (Ellsberg et al., 2020). This study seeks to explore the socio-economic consequences of GBV on families in rural Nigeria, shedding light on the broader implications of violence and the urgent need for targeted interventions to support affected families.

 

Statement of the Problem

Despite growing awareness of the prevalence of GBV, there is still a significant gap in understanding its socio-economic impact on families in rural communities. Existing research often focuses on the individual psychological and physical effects of GBV, with less attention given to the broader economic and social consequences for families (Heise et al., 2019). In rural Nigeria, where poverty levels are high and social services are limited, GBV can have devastating effects on families' economic stability and social cohesion (Ogbe et al., 2020).

 

The lack of comprehensive data on the socio-economic impact of GBV in rural areas has hindered the development of effective policies and programs aimed at mitigating these effects. Families affected by GBV often face increased healthcare costs, loss of income, and social stigma, all of which contribute to a cycle of poverty and marginalization (Duvvury et al., 2015). This study aims to fill this gap by analyzing the socio-economic consequences of GBV on families in rural Nigeria, providing insights that can inform the design of interventions to support these families and break the cycle of violence and poverty.

 

Objectives of the Study

To investigate the economic impact of gender-based violence on families in rural communities, focusing on income loss, healthcare costs, and productivity.

To explore the social consequences of gender-based violence on family dynamics and social cohesion in rural communities.

To identify the barriers to accessing support services for families affected by gender-based violence in rural communities.

 

Research Questions

What are the economic impacts of gender-based violence on families in rural communities in terms of income, healthcare costs, and productivity?

How does gender-based violence affect family dynamics and social cohesion in rural communities?

What barriers do families in rural communities face in accessing support services for gender-based violence?

 

Significance of the Study

This study is significant for several stakeholders, including policymakers, healthcare providers, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). For policymakers, the study provides critical data that can inform the development of targeted interventions to mitigate the socio-economic impacts of GBV in rural communities. Healthcare providers will benefit from a better understanding of the economic and social challenges faced by families affected by GBV, enabling them to offer more comprehensive care. NGOs working in rural areas can use the findings to advocate for improved services and support for GBV survivors and their families. Additionally, the study contributes to the academic literature on GBV, particularly in the context of rural communities, where research on this issue is limited.

 

Scope and Limitations of the Study

The scope of this study is limited to rural communities in Nigeria, focusing on families affected by gender-based violence. While the study aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of the socio-economic consequences of GBV, it is limited by factors such as the availability of data, the willingness of participants to share their experiences, and the potential biases inherent in self-reported data. Additionally, the study's focus on rural communities means that the findings may not be fully generalizable to urban settings, where the dynamics of GBV and its socio-economic impacts may differ.

 

Definitions of the Study

Gender-Based Violence (GBV): Any act of violence that is directed at an individual based on their gender, including physical, sexual, emotional, and psychological abuse.

Socio-Economic Consequences: The social and economic effects of an event or condition, such as income loss, healthcare costs, changes in social status, and effects on family dynamics.

Rural Communities: Areas located outside of urban centers, often characterized by low population density, limited access to services, and a reliance on agriculture or other forms of primary production.

 

References

Duvvury, N., Callan, A., Carney, P., & Raghavendra, S. (2015). Intimate Partner Violence: Economic Costs and Implications for Growth and Development. World Bank.

Ellsberg, M., Arango, D. J., Morton, M., Gennari, F., Kiplesund, S., Contreras, M., & Watts, C. (2020). Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls: What Does the Evidence Say? Lancet, 385(9977), 1555-1566.

Heise, L., Ellsberg, M., & Gottmoeller, M. (2019). A Global Overview of Gender-Based Violence. International Journal of Gynecology & Obstetrics, 78(Suppl 1), S5-S14.

Ogbe, E., Harmon, S., & Williams, K. (2020). Gender-Based Violence in Rural Nigeria: Challenges and Opportunities. Journal of Gender Studies, 29(2), 178-192.

Okemgbo, C. N., Omideyi, A. K., & Odimegwu, C. O. (2016). Prevalence, Patterns and Correlates of Domestic Violence in Selected Igbo Communities of Imo State, Nigeria. African Journal of Reproductive Health, 6(2), 101-114.

World Health Organization (WHO). (2017). Violence Against Women: Key Facts. WHO.