PREVALENCE OF ALCOHOL USE AMONG VICTIMS OF INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE IN NYERI CENTRAL SUB-COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is one of the leading gender issues that has affected women for many years, leading to serious physical, psychological, emotional, economic, and social ramifications. Intimate partner violence, as noted in this study, is a major problem not only globally but locally. Various global studies, including those conducted in Kenya, have demonstrated a strong interlinkage between alcohol use and its contribution to widespread violence against victims. This study sought to investigate prevalence of alcohol use among victims of intimate partner violence in Nyeri central sub-county, Kenya. The study was based on two theories: the biopsychosocial model and socio-cultural theory. This study employed a descriptive survey research design, utilizing a random sampling technique to collect data from 110 respondents. The respondents comprised of adult males and females who were in previous or current intimate relationships. Data collection was done using questionnaires and focus group interviews. The tools were administered to 10 participants to test liability using Cronbach’s alpha threshold, which scored at 0.80. The data collected was then analyzed quantitatively using IBM SPSS Statistics version 21. 0.Findings from the study indicated that different types of IPV were prevalent; economic abuse (76%), physical abuse (67%), sexual abuse including rape (65%), and physical abuse (64%). The study's findings indicate a significant prevalence of problematic alcohol use among intimate partners in Nyeri Central Sub-County, with 78% of respondents meeting the criteria for an alcohol use problem based on the CAGE questionnaire. The study recommends carrying out a review and strengthening existing gender-based violence (GBV) policies to explicitly integrate alcohol mitigation strategies. This should include community-based programs focused on reducing alcohol consumption, especially illicit brews, and addressing the underlying causes of IPV. The study further recommends the need for increased awareness and education community Campaigns.