Prevalence and Correlates of Gender-Based Violence and Sexual Harassment among Athletes in Enugu State, Nigeria: A Cross-Sectional Study

Abstract

Abstract Background/Objectives:

Gender-based violence (GBV) and sexual harassment are pervasive in sports, yet limited data exist from sub-Saharan African contexts. This study examined the prevalence of GBV and sexual harassment among registered athletes in Enugu State, Nigeria, and explored associations with sociodemographic factors.

Methods:

A cross-sectional survey was conducted between January and April 2025 among 420 registered athletes. Data from 386 valid responses were analyzed. Participants completed a semi-structured Gender-Based Violence and Sexual Harassment Questionnaire (GBVSHQ), covering experiences of verbal, emotional, physical, and sexual abuse. Descriptive statistics and chi-square tests were used to analyze prevalence and associations (p ≤ 0.05).

Results:

GBV was reported by 76.2% of respondents, with common forms including emotional abuse (70.5%), verbal abuse (68.9%), and physical threats (65.0%). Sexual harassment was experienced by 70.7%, with high rates of inappropriate touching (62.4%), unwanted advances (56.0%), and sexual comments (59.1%). Teammates (65.3%) and coaches (47.9%) were frequent perpetrators. Only 41.7% of affected athletes reported incidents. GBV was significantly associated with age, gender, education level, and sport type, while sexual harassment correlated with gender, marital status, religion, sport type, and participation status.

Conclusion:

This study highlights the alarming prevalence of GBV and sexual harassment among athletes in Enugu State, underscoring a critical need for intervention. Findings provide foundational data to inform policy, prevention programs, and athlete safeguarding measures in Nigeria. Comprehensive, survivor-centered responses are essential to protect athletes’ rights and well- being within sports environments.