PHYSICAL, EMOTIONAL, SOCIAL AND PSYCHOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF ALCOHOL USE ON INTIMATE PARTNER VIOLENCE IN NYERI CENTRAL SUB-COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Intimate partner violence (IPV) is one of the leading gender issues that has affected women for many years, leading to serious physical, psychological, emotional, economic, and social ramifications. Intimate partner violence, as noted in this study, is a major problem not only globally but locally. Various global studies, including those conducted in Kenya, have demonstrated a strong interlinkage between alcohol use and its contribution to widespread violence against women and girls. This study sought to investigate physical, emotional social and psychological Effects of Alcohol Use on Intimate Partner Violence in Nyeri central sub-county, Kenya. The study was based on two theories: the biopsychosocial model and socio-cultural theory. This study employed a descriptive research design descriptive survey design to collect data from 110 respondents under a random sampling technique. The respondents comprised of adult males and females who were in previous or current intimate relationships. Data collection was done through questionnaires and focus group interviews. The tools were administered to 10 participants to test liability using Cronbach’s alpha threshold, which scored at 0.80. The data collected was then analyzed quantitatively using SPSS version 21.0. The study's findings on the effects of alcohol use on IPV highlight a cascade of devastating consequences that extend beyond the immediate partners to impact families and communities. These effects are consistent with the long-term problems outlined in the Biopsychosocial and Sociocultural model. The study recommends the need to promote and establish accessible psychosocial support and counseling services for both individuals struggling with alcohol addiction and survivors of IPV.