Patriarchy as a major driver of intimate partner violence against women in Nigeria: A qualitative systematic review

Public Health Dissertation Prize Winner

Abstract

Background: Intimate partner violence is not only a significant obstacle to achieving gender equality globally, but it is also a major public health problem with social implications. In Nigeria, where lifetime prevalence rates range from 33.1% to 63.2%, patriarchy drives the prevalence of IPV against women through its influence on all aspects of the Nigerian society. This review aims to explore the lived experiences of women who are victims of IPV to understand how patriarchal ideologies permeate the socio-cultural context of Nigeria, shaping societal attitudes towards violence against women which leads to high prevalence of IPV. 

Methods: A qualitative systematic review was conducted, which involved a rigorous literature search on CINAHL, Medline, PsycINFO, Web of Science, and Google Scholar for relevant studies. The search was limited to studies published in English language between 2014 and 2024 to ensure the inclusion of recent and relevant studies. PICo framework was used to develop the search strategy, research question, and eligibility criteria. The quality of the included studies was appraised by using the CASP Qualitative Checklist. Hybrid Thematic Synthesis was used to analyse the included studies.  

Results: Six studies were included in the final review. Five analytic themes emerged: (i) knowledge, attitudes, and perceptions of IPV, (ii) the normalization of male dominance and control, (iii) the influence of cultural norms and traditional practices, (iv)the role of religious institutions, and (v) help-seeking behaviours. The interpretation of the themes provided a comprehensive understanding of how societal attitudes towards IPV against women in Nigeria are shaped by patriarchal beliefs which are manifested in the socio-cultural context of Nigeria, leading to pervasiveness, and prevalence of IPV. 

Conclusion: The review concluded that patriarchy influences social and cultural norms that shape perception towards IPV against women, which leads to high prevalence. Thus, addressing IPV requires a multi-faceted public strategy that involves the long-term commitment of the Nigerian government and other stakeholders, ensuring the implementation of culturally sensitive interventions that challenge patriarchal norms, empower women, and promote gender quality.