Over 50 male perpetrators of domestic violence have recently taken part in a series of support and healing group therapy sessions organised by the Lagos State Domestic and Sexual Violence Agency (DSVA). According to a statement by DSVA’s Executive Secretary, Titilola Vivour-Adeniyi, these sessions were designed to address the escalating issue of domestic violence within the state.
“The objective of the programme was hinged on psychosocial wellness of the citizenry following the alarming increase in Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) cases, according to statistical data gathered as a result of research conducted by the agency,” explained Vivour-Adeniyi.
The sessions were carefully crafted to offer “psycho-educational guidance” to male perpetrators of SGBV, aiming to provide them with better tools for emotional management when triggered.
Vivour-Adeniyi emphasised the connection between past trauma and present behaviour, stating, “There was a need to help the perpetrators heal from their childhood traumas that may have contributed to their abusive behaviour in adulthood.”
The sessions aimed to cultivate a sense of responsibility among perpetrators and encourage them to take ownership of their actions. Vivour-Adeniyi noted, “It would also assist perpetrators in unlearning unhealthy negative coping skills that have led to violence in the past.”
Moreover, the programme sought to equip participants with healthier alternatives, enabling them to “manage their anger, communicate effectively, and maintain peaceful and harmonious relationships,” according to Vivour-Adeniyi.
The comprehensive eight-week programme, which began on June 10th, 2023, and concluded on August 9th, 2023, consisted of weekly sessions. At the conclusion of these sessions, the male participants expressed their gratitude to the Lagos State Government for its initiative in facilitating these transformative meetings.
Vivour-Adeniyi also affirmed the continuation of these vital sessions, particularly for survivors who aspire to salvage their relationships while putting an end to the cycle of abuse. This commitment underscores the agency’s dedication to fostering healthier relationship dynamics within the community.
