PERCEPTION OF WOMEN OF REPRODUCTIVE AGE ON THE DETERMINANTS AND CONSEQUENCES OF SEXUAL VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN IN ENUGU SOUTH URBAN OF ENUGU STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

The prevalence of sexual violence against women at global and local settings is becoming very worrisome. It is on this note that this study examined “Perception of Women of Reproductive Age on the Determinants and Consequences of Sexual Violence against Women in Enugu south Urban of Enugu State, Nigeriaâ€. The study participants were women of reproductive age (15-49) in the study area. The sample size was 390 respondents selected using convenience of availability sampling procedure. Instruments for data collection were questionnaire, In-Depth Interview (IDI) and Focus Group Discussion (FGD). Quantitative data were processed using Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) and analysed using percentages and frequency distribution tables. Transcription of the electronic recorded interview and field notes provided data for the qualitative analysis which was thematically approached. Findings of the study show that sexual violence against women is high in Enugu south urban. The results also show that pornographic pictures/films, alcoholism, gender inequality and patriarchy are factors responsible for sexual violence against women in Enugu South urban. The study recommended that government at all levels should make sure that laws against sexual violence against women are implemented. There should be gender balance, and gender equality between both sexes. Sex education should be inculcated into the school curriculum.