Exploring Contextual and Individual Factors Influencing Prevalence of Sexual Assault among Female Young People in Anambra State, Nigeria

Abstract

Sexual assault poses a global threat, impacting victims, families, and societies both in short-term and long-term. This study aims to understand the contextual and individual factors contributing to the high prevalence of sexual assault among young females (aged 10 to 24) in Anambra State, Nigeria. Conducted as a descriptive qualitative study, data were gathered from thirty-one participants, including twenty-three stakeholders and eight rape victims, through two focus group discussions (FGDs) and thirteen in-depth interviews (IDIs). Recorded data was transcribed verbatim and analyzed thematically using NVivo 12. The study identified eight major contextual factors influencing sexual assault: socioeconomic status, drug abuse, level of morality, policy implementation, insecurity, and unemployment. Significant individual factors include the occupation of young people, parenting style, dressing choices, educational institution affiliation, individual conduct, and indiscriminate use of electronic devices. The study concludes that policies aimed at revitalizing moral instruction in schools, curbing drug use, addressing indecent dressing, and regulating phone use among young people are crucial in controlling sexual assault.