WIFE BATTERING AND THE CHALLENGES FOR NATIONAL DEVELOPMENT IN NIGERIA

Abstract

Wife battering exists in various cultures of the world. It takes many subtle forms, from aggression and use of verbal words to manifestation of strong hostility and threat to life. These acts result in obvious emotional disturbance and swellings on various parts of the body. Women across the world are expected to bear and endure such acts as part of family life.

This paper discusses the definition of violence and battering. Ways to recognize a potential batterer and reasons why women do not seek help and continue to stay in abusive situations are highlighted. The challenges for national development are also outlined.