VARIATIONS IN HOW MALE AND FEMALE UNDERGRADUATE STUDENTS OF THE UNIVERSITY OF IBADAN PERCEIVE DOMESTIC VIOLENCE

CHAPTER ONE INTRODUCTION 1.1 Background of the Study Domestic violence continues to be a major social challenge in Nigeria, having a widespread effect on individuals and the broader society. It is easily recognized as a destructive force that spreads rapidly and affects individuals across various age groups, religions, ethnic backgrounds, and types of relationships (Osisiogu, 2021). This issue includes physical, emotional, sexual, and economic abuse, cutting across cultural and socio-economic divisions. Domestic violence refers to any form of abuse carried out by an intimate partner, regardless of where or how it takes place (UNICEF, 2018). As noted by Straus and Carbon (2020), it remains a significant societal concern, shaped by diverse cultural, individual, and demographic viewpoints. Research shows that domestic violence is deeply embedded in societal norms, patriarchal systems, and institutional gender disparities that continue to dominate in Nigeria (Olatunj et al., 2021; Olufemi & Olatunji, 2022; Osisiogu, 2021). The perception of domestic violence among university students reflects the wider societal views but is also influenced by their gender, cultural background, and level of education. These factors provide a rich context to investigate how gender influences individuals’ views on domestic violence. Broadly defined, domestic violence encompasses several forms of abuse—whether physical, psychological, emotional, or sexual—that occur within intimate relationships. Historically, domestic violence has been rooted in patriarchal traditions, resulting in women being disproportionately affected. However, individuals’ experiences with gender-based violence and societal expectations significantly shape how they perceive and respond to such violence. Understanding the gendered differences in how domestic violence is perceived is essential. Previous research shows that men and women often understand and interpret domestic violence in varying ways due to differences in socialization and life experiences (Adetunji & Kehinde, 2022). For instance, some men may perceive controlling behavior or aggression as acceptable within cultural or traditional contexts, while women are more inclined to recognize these behaviors as abusive. These differing viewpoints emphasize the importance of a detailed study of gendered attitudes toward domestic violence, particularly among Nigerian university students. Studies involving university students have revealed that male and female undergraduates differ in how they understand the causes, seriousness, and proper responses to domestic violence. For example, some male students believe that promoting patience and tolerance may help in preventing intimate partner violence—an approach that contrasts with female-centered strategies that emphasize empowerment and accountability (Adejimi et al., 2022). In order to reduce and eventually eliminate domestic violence in the society, it is essential to design specific interventions, policies, and public education programs. This can only be done effectively by understanding the gender-based perspectives of domestic violence. Therefore, this study aims to explore gender differences in the perception of domestic violence among undergraduate students at the University of Ibadan. 1.2 Statement of the Problem Domestic violence and other forms of violence against women have become deeply rooted in Nigerian society, creating an imbalance where women are most frequently the victims. As reported by Olufemi & Olatunji (2022), domestic violence manifests in different forms, including sexual, physical, psychological, and others, all of which contribute to the degradation of human dignity in society. Despite the measures taken to address this issue, deeply held societal beliefs and patriarchal systems continue to normalize such violence, thereby altering people’s understanding of what constitutes abuse. University undergraduates represent a distinct social group whose perspectives are influenced by both conservative and progressive ideologies. Research suggests that gender significantly affects people’s attitudes toward domestic violence. Men and women often differ in their perceptions regarding its severity, root causes, and impact—differences that are shaped by their upbringing and real-life experiences. However, there is a lack of adequate data that specifically explores how these gendered perceptions manifest among university students in Nigeria. This study is intended to fill that gap by examining gender-based differences in how domestic violence is perceived by undergraduates at the University of Ibadan. 1.3 Objectives of the Study The primary aim of this research is to thoroughly analyze the gender-based differences in perceptions of domestic violence among undergraduates at the University of Ibadan. Specifically, the study seeks to: i. Investigate the general perception of domestic violence among male and female undergraduates. ii. Assess the attitudes of male and female students toward both victims and perpetrators of domestic violence. iii. Compare the willingness of male and female undergraduates to report incidents of domestic violence. 1.4 Research Questions The study is guided by the following questions: i.What are the general perceptions of domestic violence among male and female undergraduates? ii.What are the attitudes of male and female students toward victims and perpetrators of domestic violence? iii.How willing are male and female students to report incidents of domestic violence? 1.5 Research Hypotheses Ho1: There is no significant difference in the perception of domestic violence between male and female university undergraduates. Ha1: There is a significant difference in the perception of domestic violence between male and female university undergraduates. Ho2: There is no significant difference in the attitudes of male and female undergraduates toward victims and perpetrators of domestic violence. Ha2: There is a significant difference in the attitudes of male and female undergraduates toward victims and perpetrators of domestic violence. 1.6 Significance of the Study This study is expected to provide useful insights that will support the development of effective policies and interventions to combat domestic violence in Nigeria. The results can assist education authorities and university leadership in initiating impactful programs, such as awareness campaigns, student support systems, and protective measures. From a theoretical standpoint, this research adds to the existing body of work on domestic violence and the involvement of government institutions—especially the Ministry of Women Affairs—in addressing the issue. On a practical level, the findings will benefit policymakers, professionals, and advocates who are working to reduce the prevalence of domestic violence. The empirical data will inform sound recommendations aimed at mitigating the problem. 1.7 Scope of the Study This research is focused on critically examining the gender-based differences in perceptions of domestic violence among undergraduate students in Nigeria. Empirically, it will investigate the causes, patterns, consequences, and potential strategies for influencing public views on domestic violence. Geographically, the study will be conducted at the University of Ibadan, located in Oyo State. 1.8 Definition of Terms Domestic Violence: Refers to physical, sexual, emotional, economic, psychological, or technological actions—or threats thereof—used to control or harm another person within an intimate partner relationship. Gender Difference: Refers to the observable variations in decision-making processes, behaviors, and neurological functions between individuals based on their gender. Gender-Based Violence: Encompasses harmful actions directed at an individual based on their gender. It stems from gender inequality and the abuse of power. These actions can be physical, sexual, psychological, or economic and may occur in both private and public spaces. Examples include intimate partner violence, sexual abuse, child marriage, female genital mutilation, and so-called honor-based violence. The impacts can be severe and long-lasting, potentially resulting in death.