Influence of Religion on Domestic Violence in Ibadan Metropolis, Nigeria

Abstract

Domestic violence, which is described as a social ill is common in the Nigerian society with women bearing the greater burden of its negative consequences. The specific objectives of this study is to investigate the effect of religion on domestic violence, perceptions of religious leaders on domestic violence, respondent’s perception on the role of religion in addressing domestic violence, factors influencing domestic violence and factors that may affect the role of religion on domestic violence among men and women. Through mixed-method approach, 415 respondents were recruited using a multi-stage sampling technique. Results show that religion continues to be a dominant force that contributes to domestic violence. Women experience violence in the form of physical beating, emotional violence, sexual violence and verbal violence. Also, religion influences domestic violence and the perceptions of both sexes on violence may have implications for women’s development and society generally. Factors influencing domestic violence include religion, marital status, income level, job description, age at marriage and other factors. Conversely, religion plays a role in curbing domestic violence The study therefore concludes that religion is crucial in addressing domestic violence. There is a need for religious leaders to help reduce the rate of domestic violence by bridging the gap between males and females.