Abstract:
Intimate Partner Rape (IPR) is a pervasive form of gender-based violence and a topical human rights
issue. This study investigated the causes and consequences of Intimate Partner Rape and violence as
reported by selected married women in Nigeria. This qualitative study explored the experiences of 22
purposively selected married women aged, 22 to 40 years from two Save Our Soul (SOS) Shelters for
Abused Women who have been victims of Intimate Partner Rape/Violence. Qualitative data on Intimate
Partner Rape/violence experiences and associated factors was collected through eight Focus Group
Discussions (FGDs). Descriptive analysis was used for the demographic characteristics of the
participants. The transcription of the recorded audio cassettes, together with the recorded field notes,
provided data for the thematic analysis. The discussions revealed that the principal causes of Intimate
Partner Rape/Violence were unequal power relations; alcohol and drug dependence and jealousy. Selfreported
consequences of Intimate Partner Rape/Violence by victims included amongst others: physical
injury (31.87%) constant headaches (27.27%); sleep disturbances (18.18%); excessive fear and anxiety
(9.09%); suicidal ideation (9.09%) and hatred for men (4.55%). These findings confirm that Intimate
Partner Rape/Violence may be playing significant but salient role in the poor state of health of Nigerian
women. Accordingly, effective intervention strategies at all levels are needed to address it.
