How Does the Legality of Polygamy Affect Domestic Violence?: A Case Study of Nigeria

Authors

Jenah House, Brigham Young University
Dr. Darren Hawkins, Brigham Young University

Keywords

polygamous relationships, domestic violence, developing countries, Nigeria

College

Family, Home, and Social Sciences

Department

Political Science

Abstract

Do the presence and legalization of polygamous relationships affect domestic violence in developing countries? While there is some evidence that polygamous relationships influence domestic violence rates, present research on the subject is sparse. Even less discussed in the field is how the legalization of polygamy affects domestic violence. My research suggests that not only does polygamy influence domestic violence levels in the home, but that domestic violence rates vary based on the legality of polygamy. If the legalization and practice of polygamy together affect domestic violence, this will open up discussion on the viability and legality of polygamy within states—and potentially how those are a measure of larger cultural attitudes about the status of women that affect levels of domestic violence.

Recommended Citation

House, Jenah and Hawkins, Dr. Darren (2018) "How Does the Legality of Polygamy Affect Domestic Violence?: A Case Study of Nigeria," Journal of Undergraduate Research: Vol. 2018: Iss. 1, Article 54.
Available at: https://scholarsarchive.byu.edu/jur/vol2018/iss1/54