Reconceptualizing Digital Narratives: Harnessing Audience Perceptions of Domestic Assaults toward Women in Nigerian Cyberspace

The normalization of domestic assaults toward women in Nigerian cyberspace represents a significant concern that demands a thorough investigation of digital narratives. This study investigates the intersection of digital narratives and domestic assaults toward women in Nigeria, examining the substantial influence of cyberspace on audience perceptions. Grounded in Audience Reception Theory, the research explores the emotional resonance and impact of gendered cyber-narratives disseminated through platforms such as Opera News and Phoenix News. Employing a survey design within an interpretive framework, the study analyzed responses from 200 staff members at Benson Idahosa University, selected through a simple random sampling method, to assess how exposure to these narratives alters awareness, attitudes, and activism. The findings indicate that 57.5% of the respondents regularly engage with content related to gender-based violence, with 76% reporting a positive shift in their understanding of domestic violence. Furthermore, 79.7% of respondents acknowledged a heightened awareness of the issue, attributed to the framing of news narratives on these platforms. Remarkably, 100% of respondents recognized the transformative effect of digital platforms on societal consciousness regarding domestic violence. Conversely, 54.5% indicated that such news stories directly influenced their perceptions of the authenticity and emotional depth of these issues. These findings highlight the power of digital media to reshape public discourse on gender-based violence, promoting a more informed, empathetic, and proactive societal response in Nigeria. It becomes lucid that digital platforms, particularly news applications, are capable of shaping perceptions of domestic assaults toward women, underscoring the necessity of responsible storytelling. Consequently, to effectively combat violence against women online in Nigeria, it is essential to implement media framing, gender-sensitive content, and stricter policies.