Background of the Study
Female genital mutilation (FGM) is a harmful cultural practice that affects millions of girls and women worldwide. In Nigeria, FGM remains prevalent in certain regions, including Toro Local Government Area in Bauchi State, where the practice is deeply rooted in traditional beliefs and customs (Muhammad & Amina, 2023). Despite ongoing efforts to combat FGM through legislation and advocacy, the practice continues due to social pressure, lack of awareness, and resistance to change. Development communication can play a critical role in addressing FGM by raising awareness, challenging harmful cultural norms, and advocating for behavior change. By using radio programs, community dialogues, and social media campaigns, development communication can educate the public on the health risks associated with FGM, empower women and communities to reject the practice, and promote alternative rites of passage.
1.2 Statement of the Problem
Despite the legal prohibitions against FGM in Nigeria, the practice persists in many rural areas, including Toro LGA, where community leaders, families, and health professionals continue to uphold traditional views on its significance (Babatunde & Zainab, 2024). This is exacerbated by limited knowledge about the dangers of FGM, including long-term physical and psychological effects. This study seeks to explore how development communication strategies can be utilized to address FGM in Toro, aiming to change perceptions and reduce the incidence of this harmful practice through education, advocacy, and community engagement.
1.3 Objectives of the Study
To evaluate the effectiveness of development communication strategies in raising awareness about the dangers of FGM in Toro LGA.
To explore the role of development communication in promoting the abandonment of FGM in Toro LGA.
To assess the impact of community-based communication efforts in changing attitudes toward FGM in Toro LGA.
1.4 Research Questions
How effective are development communication strategies in raising awareness about the harmful effects of FGM in Toro LGA?
What role do communication campaigns play in influencing community leaders and residents to abandon the practice of FGM?
How can community-based communication efforts reduce the prevalence of FGM in Toro LGA?
1.5 Research Hypotheses
Development communication strategies significantly increase awareness about the harmful effects of FGM in Toro LGA.
Community-based communication efforts lead to a reduction in the practice of FGM in Toro LGA.
Social norms and traditional beliefs are major barriers to the abandonment of FGM, which communication strategies can help overcome.
1.6 Significance of the Study
This study is significant because it will provide valuable insights into the role of development communication in combating harmful cultural practices like FGM in rural Nigerian communities. The findings will help inform policy interventions, educational programs, and advocacy campaigns aimed at reducing FGM prevalence and improving the well-being of women and girls. It will also contribute to the broader discourse on the use of communication for social change in the context of gender and cultural practices.
1.7 Scope and Limitations of the Study
The study will be confined to Toro Local Government Area in Bauchi State and will specifically explore communication strategies aimed at addressing FGM. Limitations include potential resistance from communities to participate in the study due to cultural sensitivities surrounding the practice, as well as challenges in measuring behavior change over a short period.
1.8 Operational Definition of Terms
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): The practice of intentionally altering or injuring the female genitalia for non-medical reasons, typically as a cultural or religious rite.
Development Communication: The use of communication strategies and tools to foster social change, address developmental challenges, and promote awareness of issues like FGM.
Toro Local Government Area: A rural region in Bauchi State, Nigeria, where FGM continues to be practiced and development communication efforts are focused on changing attitudes toward the practice.
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