Perspectives of spousal rape in the Effutu Municipality.

Abstract

Spousal rape, a deeply sensitive and often overlooked form of intimate partner violence, has significant implications for the well-being and rights of individuals involved. The purpose of this study was to analyse the Perspectives of men and women on the prevailing spousal rape in the Effutu Municipality. The study sought to shed light on the underlying causes, and the human rights effects experienced by victims. To address this multifaceted issue, the research employed a qualitative research approach with interviews and a comprehensive literature review to triangulate findings. A purposive sampling in addition to a convenience sampling technique was utilized to select three married individuals from each of the four zonal councils in the Municipality to represent the study's participants. This selection was used to ensure that participants provided rich, relevant data specific to the study's focus on married individuals in the Municipality, reaching data saturation. Convenience sampling was employed to address practical considerations, enabling efficient recruitment of participants. The combination of these techniques allowed the study to achieve comprehensive, in-depth insights while maintaining practicality and feasibility. The study revealed that Perspectives about spousal rape in the Effutu Municipality are influenced by cultural norms, gender dynamics, and socio-economic factors, often leading to victim-blaming and a lack of recognition. Furthermore, the study identifies a range of causes of spousal rape, including power imbalances within marital relationships, cultural factors and limited access to education and resources. The study also uncovers the devastating human rights effects of spousal rape, including physical and psychological trauma, diminished autonomy, and restricted access to social, economic, and health resources. These consequences highlight the critical importance of recognizing spousal rape as a violation of fundamental human rights and of implementing measures to support victims and hold perpetrators accountable. This study contributes to a deeper understanding of spousal rape in the Effutu Municipality, highlighting the need for a holistic approach that includes policy changes, community education, and support services to combat this issue and protect the rights and well-being of all individuals involved.