Emerging Trend Of Spousal Violence In Contemporary Nigeria

Spousal violence is a global social problem chat has no territorial, gender, class or religious boundaries, Despite its high incidence, spousal violence in Nigeria is perceived with gender bias: it is mostly associated with men regardless of documented cases offcmaleycrpetrated violence. This paper therefore examines the phenomenon holistically with a view to .. identifying the factors responsible for the increase in spousal violence in Nigeria, the conflict resolution mechanisms , employed in curtailing spousal abuse, and how to reduce spousal violence in Nigeria. This study employed secondary .sources. of data collection The findings show that female violence against their spouses or partners has become prevalent in contemporary Nigeria. The causative factors include the high level of poverty in the country, psychological disposition, revolt against unhealthy cultural practices and power structure, social media influence, peer group and extended family influence, / disrespect for elders and cultural leaders, substance abuse by women, and the penchant for modem methods of conflict resolutions as opposed td more effective traditional methods, among which mediation stands out. The study recommends, among others, that spouses should learn to collaborate as partners in progress in building their families instead of competing 1 for dominance or authority. The religious and cultural perception of power structure in the family should be such that ho partner is regarded as subservient or inferior. Traditional methods of conflict resolution should be promoted to build lasting . peace in the family, which is the microcosm of society.