THE RELATIONSHIP BETWEEN ECONOMIC STATUS AND INCIDENCE OF GENDER BASED VIOLENCE (GBV) IN EDE (A CASE STUDY OF EDE NORTH)

ABSTRACT This study focuses on the Relationship between Economic Status and Incidence of Gender Based Violence (GBV) In Ede (A Case Study of Ede North), with a sample size of 366 households selected using a purposive sampling technique. The Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) was used for data analysis, while T-test and Chi-square tests were employed as the methods of analysis. The findings of the study indicate that There is a significant difference in perceptions of economic status as a cause of GBV across different educational levels (F = 689.315, p-value = 0.00). Additionally, there is no significant difference in the mean number of GBV cases reported behreen. employed and unemployed respondents (T-test = 31.487, p-value = 0.000). Furthermore, There is no significant association between gender and the type of GBY experienced. (chi-square = 299.272, p-value = 0.000). In conclusion, the ANOVA results confirm that educational level significantly influences perceptions of economic status as a cause of GBV. The significant diference in perceptions across educational levels supports the alternative hypothesis, indicating that education plays a critical role in shaping how individuals view economic factors contributing to GBV. Meanwhile, the study confirms that employment status significantly influences exposure to GBV, with unemployed individuals being more vulnerable. Therefore, it is recommended that Employers and policymakers should develop inclusive employment policies that prioritize job opportunities for at-risk groups, particularly women and economically disadvantaged individuals, to enhance financial independence and lower the risk of GBV