Drinking problems and the position of women in Nigeria

This paper examines, against the background of society's general attitudes toward women, the special problems that arise for women who misuse alcohol in Nigeria. Both traditional and contemporary Nigerian societies idealize women. Their roles are circumscribed and they are least expected to engage in certain socially unacceptable behaviours (alcohol misuse included) that could at best only be pardoned if males were to behave in this way. Women who misuse alcohol in Nigeria therefore suffer enormous psychological and social damage, besides the physical complications experienced by alcohol misusers. They are considered as social misfits, and would in many cases end up in prostitution. Their "sins" are visited upon their children and extended family, who in turn would be under pressure to salvage the family name and image. The nature of help available to such women, and recommendations for improving that help, are discussed.