ASSESSMENT OF DOMESTIC VIOLENCE AND ITS IMPACTS ON FAMILY STABILITY IN JOS NORTH LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, PLATEAU STATE

Domestic violence remains a pervasive challenge with profound consequences for individual well-being and family stability, particularly in conflict-affected areas such as Jos North Local Government Area of Plateau State, Nigeria. This study investigated the prevalence, forms, and impacts of domestic violence on family stability, while also exploring possible solutions to reduce the menace. The study adopted Social Learning Theory, utilizing a mixed-method approach to data collection, combining quantitative surveys with 200 respondents and qualitative interviews with 12 key informants, including community leaders, religious leaders, NGO officials, and victims of domestic violence. Findings revealed that domestic violence in Jos North occurs in multiple forms that include physical, emotional, sexual, and economic with women disproportionately affected. The impacts on family stability were significant, including marital breakdown, weakened parenting roles, emotional and behavioral challenges among children, and overall deterioration of family well-being. The study further identified socio-cultural norms, economic hardship, substance abuse, and weak enforcement of protective laws as key drivers of domestic violence in the area. Solutions proposed included strict enforcement of the Violence Against Persons (Prohibition) Act, economic empowerment of women, reporting and legal support for victims, awareness campaigns, and community-based interventions that challenge harmful cultural norms. The study concludes that addressing domestic violence in Jos North requires a multi-sectoral approach that integrates cultural, economic, and legal frameworks. Such strategies are crucial for fostering safer households and promoting resilient family systems capable of contributing to community stability and development. Keywords: Domestic violence, family stability, gender-based violence, intimate partner violence.