Psychological and Social Impacts of Gender-Based Violence and Coping Strategies among Survivors Attending Mai Talle Tara Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Kebbi State Teaching Hospital Kalgo, Nigeria
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.54536/ajncc.v1i1.8844Keywords:
Coping, Gender-Based Violence, Psychological Impact, Social Impact, SurvivorsAbstract
Gender-based violence is associated with substantial psychological and social consequences, yet survivors may adopt different strategies to manage its effects. This study assessed the psychological and social impacts of gender-based violence and identified coping strategies among survivors attending Mai Talle Tara Sexual Assault Referral Centre, Kebbi State teaching Hospital Kalgo, Nigeria. A descriptive cross-sectional survey design was used among survivors attending the centre. From a target population of 120, a sample size of 92 was calculated using Slovin’s formula at a 0.05 margin of error, and 87 completed questionnaires were analysed, giving a response rate of 94.6%. Data were collected with a structured Likert-scale questionnaire and analysed using frequencies, percentages and mean scores in the Statistical Package for Social Sciences version 26.0. Respondents strongly agreed that gender-based violence was associated with psychological consequences, including anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, emotional distress, post-traumatic stress symptoms, fear and insecurity, and poor mental well-being, with a grand mean of 4.32. Social consequences, including isolation, stigma, discrimination, strained relationships, reduced participation and weakened support networks, recorded a grand mean of 4.30. Coping strategies also received strong agreement, with a grand mean of 4.26; religious or spiritual activities and access to healthcare services were the highest-rated strategies. The study concludes that gender-based violence has profound psychological and social effects, while survivor coping is supported by family, professional, spiritual, healthcare, legal and empowerment resources. Survivor-centred, multidisciplinary care and stronger psychosocial support are recommended.
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Copyright (c) 2026 Amina Usman Koko, Bawa Shagari Nasiru (Author)
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