Understanding the Knowledge and Perception of Domestic Abuse, Among Undergraduate Nursing Students at College of Nursing Nguru, Yobe State

Vollständiger Abstract

Worum geht es in dieser Arbeit?

Domestic abuse is a pervasive public health issue with significant physical, psychological, and social consequences. This study explored the knowledge and perception of domestic abuse among undergraduate nursing students at the College of Nursing, Federal Medical Centre Nguru, Yobe State. A cross-sectional design was employed with a sample of 153 students selected through convenience sampling. Data were collected using a validated semi-structured questionnaire and analyzed using descriptive statistics and correlation tests. Findings revealed that the majority of students demonstrated good to excellent awareness and proficiency regarding the causes of domestic abuse, as well as competence in recognizing and handling abuse cases. However, more than two-thirds of the participants lacked formal training on managing domestic abuse, and a significant proportion did not report or follow up on identified cases. Analysis further showed that gender and year of study had significant relationships with students’ knowledge and perception of domestic abuse, with female students and those in higher years of study demonstrating greater competence. Conversely, age showed no significant association. The study concludes that while nursing students in Nguru possess moderate to high levels of awareness and perception of domestic abuse, critical gaps remain in formal training and reporting practices. It recommends integrating domestic abuse education into nursing curricula, enhancing practical training, and promoting inter professional collaboration to strengthen nurses’ capacity in identifying, reporting, and managing cases of domestic abuse.