Predictors of intimate partner violence and associated marital disruption among ever-married women in sub-Saharan Africa: a multi-country analysis for policy and intervention priorities.

INTRODUCTION: Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) remains a significant public health and human rights concern globally, disproportionately affecting women. This study investigates predictors of IPV and its association with marital disruption among ever-married women in sub-Saharan Africa.

METHODS: Cross-sectional data from the Demographic and Health Surveys (DHS) covering 25 sub-Saharan African countries was analysed. The study examined the prevalence of IPV and marital disruption, focusing on socio-demographic characteristics (age, residence, education, and union duration) and partner-related factors (controlling behavior, alcohol use, age differences, and exposure to parental violence).

RESULTS: Findings revealed a high prevalence of IPV across the study population. IPV was significantly associated with marital disruption, particularly among women aged 25-29, those residing in rural areas, with primary education, and those in unions lasting 5-9 years. Partner characteristics, including controlling behavior, alcohol consumption, larger age gaps, and a history of witnessing parental violence, were strongly linked to both IPV and increased risk of separation or divorce. Women who experienced any form of IPV had 56% lower odds of remaining in a current union, highlighting IPV as a major driver of marital instability.

DISCUSSION: These results underscore the urgent need for targeted, context-specific interventions to address IPV and mitigate its destabilizing effects on family structures. Policy recommendations include advancing women's education and economic empowerment, promoting community-level awareness campaigns, and transforming harmful gender norms. Such interventions are critical for achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality and ensuring women's safety and stability in intimate relationships.