Determinants and Consequences of Sexual Coercion Amongst Female Adolescent Hawkers in Enugu State, Nigeria
Chapter One
Objective of the study
- To explore the economic, social, and cultural factors that contribute to the vulnerability of female adolescent hawkers to sexual coercion.
- To investigate the physical, psychological, and socio-economic consequences of sexual coercion on the affected girls.
- To understand the coping mechanisms that female adolescent hawkers employ to navigate situations of sexual coercion.
CHAPTER TWO
REVIEWED OF RELATED LITERATURE
THEORETICAL FRAMEWORK
The paper is anchored on Marxian theory. The proponent of this theory is Karl Marx. According to Marx (1963), the change in the society results from the economic base and super structural institutions and reflection ofthe changes in the economic base. The concrete form of this base is the production of man’s subsistence needs, the production process itself is understandable as a human social activity in terms of social relationship that exists between these various individuals and groups involved in the process. Karl Marx posits that all through history when we consider those social relationships that make the production process a social phenomenon, two major classes or group of people are identifiable at all times. They are few individuals who own and control the means of production and the majority of people who do not own the means of production but who do the actual production by using their natural human labour power. Marx opines that a class struggle always emerges between the ruling class and the working class as a result ofthe unequal distribution of societal resources. Scholars have criticized Marxian conflict theory because of his overemphasis on the economy as the major source of conflict in the society. Marx failed to identify other non-economic variables like bad governance which may create extremes of wealth and poverty in the same society. In spite of the shortcomings and deficiencies of Marxian theory, it seems to be the most relevant and suitable theory for this study. In relating the theory to street hawking, it should be observed that unequal allocation of resources and inequality encourage poverty among members of the society. High level of poverty influences parents to engage their children in street hawking which also is associated with some social and physical problems. Marxian theory best explains the phenomenon at hand.
Factors Influencing Street Hawking
Appel (2009) asserts that structural inequality is a major factor that influences street trading. Nwabueze (1992) attributes street hawking to poverty and inequality. Other factors that influence street hawking are adverse economic environment, unemployment, massive retrenchment, underemployment and poor quality oflife (Okojie, 2007). All these factors are features of Nigerian society. Nnom (2003) posits that while poverty is often regarded as the principal cause of forcing children into child labour, a lack of social service at home, lack of good housing, inadequate food and healthcare services combine to compel parents to sent their children into street hawking. It then implies that the less privileged including children without homes are the most vulnerable to these social ills. The economic constraints also force parents to look for wealth at all cost to the detriment oftheir children. Crosson (2008) posits that there is a link between parents with marginal income and the imperative to push children into work so as to supplement family income. Children of poor families have to help generate family income and compensate for discrepancies in the society, particularly as the gap between the haves and have nots has grown in recent years, such situation breeds poverty (Bass, 2004; Binder and Sorgin, 2009). Low family income carries with it high risk of illness, limitations on mobility and limited access to education, thus the legacy of poverty is passed from parents to children (UNICEF, 2003). The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in its debut Human development report ranked Nigeria 137th out of 184 nations in terms of human development. In Nigeria, poverty encourages prostitution, corruption, armed robbery, street life, increased unemployment, poor living conditions, high mortality, acute malnutrition, short life expectancy and human deprivation (UBAmonthly digest, March! April 2006). William (2008) opines that such factors as broken homes, unemployment and death of parents can also make or lead a child to be a hawker. According to him, these victims of broken homes are normally compelled to hawk or engage in jobs in order to cater for themselves since their parents cannot do so. In some cases, some children hawk because of peer pressure.
CHAPTER THREE
RESEARCH METHODOLOGY
INTRODUCTION
In this chapter, we described the research procedure for this study. A research methodology is a research process adopted or employed to systematically and scientifically present the results of a study to the research audience viz. a vis, the study beneficiaries.
RESEARCH DESIGN
Research designs are perceived to be an overall strategy adopted by the researcher whereby different components of the study are integrated in a logical manner to effectively address a research problem. In this study, the researcher employed the survey research design. This is due to the nature of the study whereby the opinion and views of people are sampled. According to Singleton & Straits, (2009), Survey research can use quantitative research strategies (e.g., using questionnaires with numerically rated items), qualitative research strategies (e.g., using open-ended questions), or both strategies (i.e., mixed methods). As it is often used to describe and explore human behaviour, surveys are therefore frequently used in social and psychological research.
POPULATION OF THE STUDY
According to Udoyen (2019), a study population is a group of elements or individuals as the case may be, who share similar characteristics. These similar features can include location, gender, age, sex or specific interest. The emphasis on study population is that it constitutes of individuals or elements that are homogeneous in description.
This study was carried to examine determinants and consequences of Sexual Coercion amongst female adolescent hawkers in Enugu State, Nigeria. Residents in Enugu forms the population of the study.
CHAPTER FOUR
DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS
INTRODUCTION
This chapter presents the analysis of data derived through the questionnaire and key informant interview administered on the respondents in the study area. The analysis and interpretation were derived from the findings of the study. The data analysis depicts the simple frequency and percentage of the respondents as well as interpretation of the information gathered. A total of eighty (80) questionnaires were administered to respondents of which only seventy-seven (77) were returned and validated. This was due to irregular, incomplete and inappropriate responses to some questionnaire. For this study a total of 77 was validated for the analysis.
CHAPTER FIVE
SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATION
Introduction
It is important to ascertain that the objective of this study was to ascertain Determinants and Consequences of Sexual Coercion amongst female adolescent hawkers in Enugu State, Nigeria. In the preceding chapter, the relevant data collected for this study were presented, critically analyzed and appropriate interpretation given. In this chapter, certain recommendations made which in the opinion of the researcher will be of benefits in addressing Determinants and Consequences of Sexual Coercion amongst female adolescent hawkers in Enugu State, Nigeria.
Summary
This study was on Determinants and Consequences of Sexual Coercion amongst female adolescent hawkers in Enugu State, Nigeria. Three objectives were raised which included; To explore the economic, social, and cultural factors that contribute to the vulnerability of female adolescent hawkers to sexual coercion, to investigate the physical, psychological, and socio-economic consequences of sexual coercion on the affected girls and to understand the coping mechanisms that female adolescent hawkers employ to navigate situations of sexual coercion. A total of 77 responses were received and validated from the enrolled participants where all respondents were drawn from residents in Enugu. Hypothesis was tested using Chi-Square statistical tool (SPSS).
Conclusion
The exploration of the determinants and consequences of sexual coercion among female adolescent hawkers in Enugu State, Nigeria, has illuminated a distressing reality that demands urgent attention from policymakers, stakeholders, and society at large. This study has unveiled a complex web of factors that expose these vulnerable young girls to sexual coercion, while also underscoring the devastating and far-reaching consequences that result from such experiences.
The determinants of sexual coercion revealed a nexus of economic vulnerability, limited educational opportunities, and deeply ingrained gender norms. Female adolescent hawkers, due to their socio-economic circumstances and lack of agency, often find themselves in situations where they are susceptible to manipulation, threats, and exploitation. This study’s findings reiterate the importance of addressing poverty, enhancing educational access, and challenging gender inequalities to create a safer environment for these girls.
The consequences of sexual coercion are profound and multifaceted. Survivors experience psychological trauma, risk of sexually transmitted infections, unwanted pregnancies, disrupted education, and social stigmatization. These far-reaching consequences resonate across multiple aspects of their lives, perpetuating cycles of disadvantage and limiting their future prospects. The study underscores the pressing need for comprehensive support systems that encompass mental health services, reproductive health education, legal protection, and economic empowerment.
While this study focuses specifically on Enugu State, its implications extend beyond regional boundaries. The findings underscore the urgency of crafting targeted policies and interventions that recognize the unique challenges faced by female adolescent hawkers. By addressing the determinants through poverty alleviation initiatives, educational reforms, and gender sensitization, and by mitigating the consequences through trauma-informed care and holistic support services, stakeholders can pave the way for transformative change.
In conclusion, the determinants and consequences of sexual coercion among female adolescent hawkers in Enugu State expose a critical need for a multi-faceted approach that combines education, policy advocacy, and community engagement. The insights gleaned from this study serve as a clarion call for action – an imperative to safeguard the rights, dignity, and well-being of these vulnerable girls. By working collectively to address the underlying causes and alleviate the repercussions of sexual coercion, society can foster an environment where every young girl can thrive, unburdened by the shadows of exploitation and inequality.
Recommendation
Building upon the insights gained from the study on the determinants and consequences of sexual coercion among female adolescent hawkers in Enugu State, Nigeria, the following recommendations are put forth to address this pressing issue and create a safer environment for these vulnerable girls:
- Comprehensive Awareness Campaigns: Launch targeted awareness campaigns within communities, schools, and public spaces to educate female adolescent hawkers about their rights, the dynamics of sexual coercion, and available support services. These campaigns should also involve parents, caregivers, and community leaders to foster a supportive environment.
- Accessible Support Services: Establish accessible and confidential support services, including counseling, legal aid, and medical assistance, tailored to the needs of survivors of sexual coercion. These services should be available in safe and non-judgmental spaces.
- Empowerment Programs: Develop empowerment programs that focus on building the self-esteem, agency, and life skills of female adolescent hawkers. These programs can equip them with the tools to assert their rights, negotiate safe spaces, and respond effectively to coercive situations.
- Educational Reforms: Advocate for policies that enhance educational opportunities for female adolescent hawkers. Address the barriers to education, such as poverty and discrimination, to keep them engaged in learning and reduce their vulnerability.
- Gender Sensitization: Integrate gender sensitization into school curricula, community programs, and vocational training initiatives. Raise awareness about gender inequality, promote respectful relationships, and challenge harmful stereotypes.
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