Determinants, Disclosure, and Help-Seeking Behaviour in Domestic Violence: A Comparative Study of Women in Rural and Urban Settings in Anambra State, Nigeria
by Agunanne Benjamin Chukwuemeka, Agunanne Christiana Chikaodiri, Best Ordinioha, Chiejine Gibson Ifechukwude, Chinekwu S. Anyaoku, Duluora Nneka Chidimma, Nnaemeka Emmanuel Akubue, Ogbonna Vivian Ifeoma, Okoli Adaora Ukamaka, Omoteniola Taiwo-Ojo
Published: February 26, 2026 • DOI: 10.51244/IJRSI.2026.13020046
Abstract
Background
Domestic violence (DV) against women remains a pervasive public health problem worldwide. Disclosure and help-seeking behaviours are critical pathways for accessing support and protection, yet they remain poorly understood in low- and middle-income countries, including Nigeria. This study examined the determinants, disclosure patterns, and help-seeking behaviours related to DV among women in rural and urban settings.
Methods
A comparative cross-sectional mixed-methods study was conducted in Nnewi North (urban) and Anaocha (rural) Local Government Areas. A total of 588 women aged 18 years and older were recruited. In addition, 20 survivors who disclosed DV during the survey were purposively selected for in-depth interviews. Quantitative data were analysed using descriptive statistics and multivariable logistic regression while qualitative data were thematically analysed.
Results
The mean age of respondents was 31.88 ± 10.1 years, with the majority aged 20–29 years (35.4%), married (67%), and self-employed (56.3%). Key determinants of DV included alcohol and substance abuse by partners (adjusted odds ratio [aOR]: 1.45; 95% CI: 1.03–2.04), economic hardship (aOR: 0.66; 95% CI: 0.47–0.92), and educational disparity between partners (aOR: 1.75; 95% CI: 1.18–2.62). Economic hardship was more significant in rural areas, whereas alcohol and substance abuse were more prevalent in urban areas. Overall disclosure rates were below 50%, with survivors primarily confiding in parents or siblings (28.4%) and in-laws (17.9%), while disclosure to healthcare providers was rare, particularly among urban women. Help-seeking prevalence was 42.2% among rural women and 38.1% among urban women, with emotional support being the most commonly received form and legal support the least accessed.
Conclusion
Domestic violence against women in Anambra State is influenced by partner-related, socioeconomic, and educational factors, with low disclosure and limited help-seeking observed across rural and urban settings. Interventions should promote safe disclosure, strengthen formal support systems, and address contextual determinants to improve the protection and well-being of survivors.