Perceptions of risk and protective factors associated with dating violence by female students at the University Of Benin, Nigeria
Master Thesis
2017
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University of Cape Town
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Dating violence has been reported globally as a public health and socio-cultural issue affecting millions of female university students in dating relationships. The serious health implications can affect academic performance and the total wellbeing of the individual and the society. Literature on risk and protective factors for dating violence among students at universities is limited in Nigeria. The purpose of this study was to explore and describe the perceptions of risk and protective factors for dating violence among female students at the University of Benin, Nigeria, using a case study methodology. In this study, a sample of 90 participants was recruited to participate in nine focus groups. Data were collected through focus group discussions. Thematic content analysis was employed to analyse the data, which yielded 24 themes. These were grouped according to the four levels of the socio-ecological framework: individual, interpersonal, community and societal level factors regarding risk of and protection from dating violence among female students. Thirteen themes were identified under risk factors for dating violence among female students, while 11 were identified under protective factors. Individual level risk factors included alcohol and substance abuse, poor interpersonal skills, poor control of emotions, possessiveness and risky sexual behavior. Interpersonal level risk factors included negative childhood experiences, influence from others and clash in belief systems between partners. Community level risk factors included patriarchy and violence in the community, and societal level risk factors included the influence of technology on relationships, absence of regulations to protect women from abuse and poverty. Individual level protective factors included maturity and self-knowledge/acceptance before dating, self-protective behaviours and control. Interpersonal level protective factors included having elders as good role models, trusting relationships, mutual respect between partners and an open relationship and transparency between partners. The community level protective factors included cultural norms to reduce violence and the university response, while societal level protective factors included public awareness and laws to protect women from violence. The findings raise the need for the university management and other stakeholders on campus to develop community awareness campaigns around healthy dating relationships among partners, and to improve the practice of dating violence prevention. Policy makers in Nigeria can use the findings to develop policies and regulations to address dating violence and other forms of violence on Nigerian campuses.
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Aigbodion, A. 2017. Perceptions of risk and protective factors associated with dating violence by female students at the University Of Benin, Nigeria. University of Cape Town.