Gender domination and domestic violence in Nigerian video films: a paradigmatic appraisal

Abstract

This paper examines the symmetry between domestic violence and gender domination by x-raying some of the issues and challenges that generate domestic violence. Using two video Films produced in the Nigerian Film Industry as case studies, the work argues that gender based violence is not limited to the female gender because, beyond physical demonstration of violence against women, men face psychological violence in the pursuance of their patriarchal ideologies. The study employed the interpretative approach to content analysis within the qualitative research methodology in undertaking a critical analysis of the films. Video Compact Discs (VCDs) and Digital Video Discs (DVDs) and related literatures in film, and feminist theory as well as postulations on domestic violence and Gender domination are used for data analysis. The findings reveal that domestic violence is not limited to the feminine gender. Beyond physical demonstration of violence against women, men also face psychological violence in varied degrees. The investigation reveals that gender domination generates violence among men and women because groups with the intent to dominate and suppress one another in a relationship cause marital crises. A strive towards mutual co-existence is therefore advocated.