GENDER DYNAMICS IN COUNSELING AND COMMUNITY DISPUTE RESOLUTION IN GIW A LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA OF KADUNA STATE, NIGERIA

Abstract

This study explored gender dynamics in counselling and community dispute resolution among residents of Giwa Local Government Area, Kaduna State, Nigeria. The study was guided by two objectives, two research questions, and two hypotheses. A descriptive survey research design was adopted. The population comprised 2,150 community members involved in dispute resolution processes across five communities in Giwa Local Government. A sample of 450 participants was randomly selected. Data were collected using a validated questionnaire,

adapted from existing literature, with a reliability coefficient of 0.78 and internal consistency of 0.85, pilot-tested on 50 participants from the neighbouring community. Data were analyzed using the Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS), with mean scores and standard deviations addressing research questions, and Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) testing hypotheses at a 0.05 significance level. Findings revealed significant gender differences in participation and effectiveness in counselling and dispute resolution, with women showing higher engagement in counselling but lower influence in community dispute resolution. The study concluded that addressing gender disparities through targeted training and inclusive policies could enhance equitable participation. It recommended that local governments and NGOs develop gender-sensitive training programmes to empower both men and women in counselling and dispute resolution processes.