Experiences of Intimate Partner Violence against Men living with HIV in Birnin Kudu, Northwest Nigeria: A Qualitative Study

Abstract

Globally, intimate partner violence (IPV) among women living with HIV is well researched in various settings, but little is known about IPV among men living with HIV. While most of the documented facts are from quantitative surveys, very little has been documented from qualitative studies on the subject. Hence, this study sought to explore the experiences of IPV among HIV-positive men living in Birnin Kudu, Jigawa State Nigeria. This study was carried out using an experiential qualitative research approach which collected data through a semi-structured interview that explored the IPV experiences of 23 HIV-positive men, who were all Hausa – Muslims. Their experience of IPV was explored regarding the types of violence, reasons, and consequences. The data were explored with reflexive thematic analysis. Common themes relating to reasons for victimization, the types of IPV experienced, and the consequences of IPV were generated. All the participants in this study had experienced psychological aggression; some had experienced physical assault, while one of the participants had experienced sexual coercion. The reasons for the victimization: include disclosure of HIV status, domestic issues, and suspicion about extra-marital affairs. The experience of IPV against men living with HIV is complex, with psychological aggression and physical assault occurring concurrently. It is of essence to address IPV among men living with HIV as this may lead to a poorer health outcomes.