Culture, Religion and Help-Seeking for Intimate Partner Violence Victims in Nigeria (A Narrative Review)

Abstract:

The way of life of individuals varies according to their peculiar belief systems. Cultural and religious practices dictate how life issues are addressed, with the views of the elderly and spiritual leaders taken seriously. Experience of abuse and violence within the family and intimate relationships is on the increase globally and is often times seen as private affairs, thus further enabling the perpetration and victimization of intimate partner violence. This paper examines the impact of culture, religion and patriarchy on the prevalence of Intimate Partner violence and help-seeking from family, friends and religious leaders instead of the criminal justice system. It is observed that victims of IPV do not seek help or justice from the appropriate quarters i.e. law enforcement agencies citing different reasons ranging from shame of victimization to lack of trust in the law enforcement institutions, societal and religious opinions are some of the dilemma faced by survivors.