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Abstract
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OBJECTIVE: This article explores the association between polygyny and intimate partner violence (IPV) in Nigeria, with attention to selection into polygyny.
BACKGROUND: Although IPV occurs within the social context of a family, the linkages between polygyny and IPV are rarely interrogated, and there is little attempt to differentiate between "polygyny effects" and "selection effects." Method: This article uses a sample of 19,189 couples from the 2013 Nigeria Demographic Health Survey to conduct (a) a multivariate analysis of the characteristics that predict selection into polygyny, (b) a propensity score matching analysis of the association between polygyny and IPV, and (c) a Rosenbaum bounds analysis to assess hidden bias that might affect both selection into polygyny and IPV.
RESULTS: People who entered polygynous unions were different on observed characteristics--including relative status of husbands and wives coming into the union, education, religion, and ethnicity--than those who entered monogamous unions. Polygyny was associated with higher probabilities of women's reports of recent physical and emotional IPV, net of observed differences; however, a Rosenbaum bounds analysis indicated that it was highly plausible unobserved selectivity into polygyny helped account for these associations.
CONCLUSION: It is important to move beyond viewing polygyny as a "risk factor" for IPV and toward understanding how selection into marriage is an important social process with implications for IPV, health, and well-being.
Language: en |